Samuel Risby

On Sunday, June 2, 2024, surrounded by his family, Pastor Samuel Risby, 69, transitioned from earthly labor to heavenly rest in the arms of the Lord. Born September 2, 1954, in Akron, Ohio, Sam was the first of six children born to the late James Jr. and Earlene Risby. He enjoyed a loving childhood with his 5 younger siblings and was well known for his humor and vivid storytelling. Sam attended Akron’s Central Hower High School and was a member of the graduating class of 1973. He went on to earn his associate degree in mechanical design and began a career as a Draftsman. Sam was married to Rose Risby (Cooper) from January 24, 1976-2007, and from this union were born two children.

Pastor Samuel Risby surrendered his life to Jesus on April 11, 1974. He quickly developed a love for God and a deep desire to study His word. In the mid-80s he revealed that he had been called to preach the word of God and delivered his trial sermon under the leadership of the late Bishop Albert Cooper of the Church of God Militant Pillar in Ground of the Truth. Throughout the years, Sam played an integral role in building churches within the MPGT organization. In December 1991, Sam stood alongside his brother, Pastor Phillip Risby, as his Assistant Pastor, to establish Liberty Tabernacle, a ministry that focused on going outside the church walls to reach those in need of salvation. Years later, Sam served as an Elder alongside Pastor Greg Lee of Heaven’s Gate Community Church and was ordained as Assistant Pastor on September 16, 2018. He continued serving through his church, preaching and teaching the word until he gained his eternal reward.

Sam obtained his CDL and began a new career as an Operator in October of 2000 with Metro Regional Transit Authority. His years of service gained him respect and favor in Summit and Cuyahoga Counties. Many of his coworkers became his chosen family, and frequent riders became friends. He loved and devoted many hours to excellence at his job. In his personal life, Sam was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, biking, and handball. He had an affinity for cinema, with an extensive collection of movies, old and new. He loved to eat good food and laugh. He was always a jokester and would tell and re-tell the best stories in a slow, animated, recognizable way that only he could. He was always dressed to impress and jeweled to perfection. His greatest loves were God and his family. Sam stood firmly on the things he believed in and would give his last and life to serve and protect those he loved.

Sam is preceded in death by his parents, Deacon James Risby Jr. and Mother Earlene Risby, and his two brothers Michael and Daniel Risby.

He is survived by his children, D’Shaunn Risby and Ebony (Nikeland) Nichols; brother, Phillip (Cynthia) Risby; sisters, Gloria (Benjamin) Blair and Sandra (Calvin) Guess; grandchildren, William Watkins, Tiara Risby, Donovan Edmonds, Tavian Risby, Nikaiya Nichols, and Nikeland Nichols II. He also leaves to mourn his beloved Heaven’s Gate Community Church, METRO family, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Pastor Samuel Risby, affectionately known as Sam, Pops, Daddy, Papaw, Muncle Cham, “Shaft,” “Bobble-head,” and “Parking Lot,” was immensely loved. His life and legacy will be remembered and revered in our hearts for eternity.

Family and friends are invited to visit at Liberty Tabernacle (475 Frank Ave., Barberton, OH 44203) on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 10am until the time of his funeral service at 11am. Burial will follow his funeral service at Glendale Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at 667 Sparrow Way, Wadsworth, OH 44281.

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