Samuel (Sam) Joseph Acres, Jr. passed away on November 24, 2025 while hospitalized at Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, Alabama at the age of 80.
Sam was a 1962 graduate of Roane County High School in Kingston, Tennessee, and graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science degree in math and science.
Sam retired in 2013 as Vice President of Technology at Muscle Shoals Minerals which had become a leading supplier of fused magnesium oxide in the world. Sam’s wide range of knowledge in his field and his ability to connect with customers and his diligence in establishing high quality standards helped make Sam one of only a few worldwide experts in his field and his expertise was widely sought, even after retirement. Sam traveled extensively during his career to northern China over many years to set up a local manufacturing presence there.
Sam was an avid University of Tennessee football fan and a valued member of the Shoals Mustang Club.
Sam was born in Roane County, Tennessee on December 27, 1944 to Samuel Joseph Acres, Sr. and Lena Josephine (Jo) Gibbs Acres Hilby. Sam was married to his beloved wife, Lynda Presley Acres, for 56 years prior to her death in 2020. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, David L. Acres and nephew, Jason Acres.
Sam is survived by his and Lynda’s beloved daughter, Angela K. Acres and his sister-in-law, Vicki Acres. He is also survived by grandnephews Daniel, Dylan and Caleb. Sam also had a large extended family on his wife’s side who loved him and will miss him.
A gathering of friends will be held at Morrison Funeral Home in Tuscumbia from 3-5 pm Thursday, December 4. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Colbert County Animal Shelter or Florence Lauderdale Animal Services.
