Funeral Services were held Tuesday August 9, 2016 at 11:00 am at Saulters Moore Chapel in Prentiss, MS, for Sammy Joe Ard, age 71, who passed away due to cancer at his residence on August 5, 2016.   Interment followed in Cliburn Cemetery. Saulters Moore Funeral Home of Prentiss handled all arrangements.

Rev. Steve Cirlot and Rev. Ray Hodges officiated.  Pallbearers were: Edwin Davis, Seth Davis, Jimmy Davis, Brooks Davenport, Joey Davis, Tony Davis and Harold McKinnon.

Sammy Joe was born December 7, 1944 in New Hebron, MS.  He was the son of James M. Ard and Virgie Sills Ard. Born as a child of special needs, he grew to be a man with very few needs. He attended Carson Elementary School in Carson, MS.

At an early age, Sammy professed his faith in Jesus Christ and was baptized. He was faithful in attending Crooked Creek Baptist Church in New Hebron and Ridglea Heights Baptist Church in Moss Point, MS. He developed a life-long interest in gospel music, church, family and friends. Special friendships were made with the staff and residents of the Eddie Disanti Group Home in Gautier, MS where he lived and worked for 17 years.

Sammy was a light to everyone he came in contact with. His innocent and pure joy was contagious and something to be admired. Sammy never let his disability get him down, which in turn taught others how to smile despite hardships.

He is survived by his sister, Evone Davenport (Joe) of Florence, MS; Five nephews, Harold McKinnon (Angela), Tony Davis (Gaila), Joey Davenport (Loren), Jimmy Davis (Brandi) and Edwin Davis (Jayne); seven great nephews and five great nieces. One great- great nephew and one great- great niece.

He was preceded in death by his parents, J.M. and Vergie; Two sisters, Joyce (Dallas) McKinnon of Escatawpa, MS and Fannie (Huey) Davis of Hurley, MS. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to a charity of your choice, the American cancer society of Shilom Baptist Church. Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.