Sam Carlton Erexson

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Sam Carlton Erexson, who was born on January 1, 1940, and passed away surrounded by family on November 13, 2025.

Sam was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His passing leaves a deep void in the lives of his immediate family, including his loving wife, Joyce Erexson, and their children: daughter, Shalet Johnson-Condee (Josh); sons, Leif Erexson, Michael Cox (Patricia), and Sean Cox (Nikki); bonus Son-in-law, Jason Morris.

He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Jordan Cox (Ashleigh), Logan Johnson, and Landry Pilota (Salvatore), and his great-granddaughter, Lily Cox. Sam also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Christy Darlene Moore (Joe).

Sam proudly served 12 years active-duty Navy (1959-1971) - which included time on the USS Antietam (CVS-36) before its decommission in 1963 - as a supply petty officer. One notable story he always liked to tell was his ship was one of the first to have chocolate milk available due to his determination to make it happen. He achieved the rank of E-7, Chief Petty Officer.

After his time in the active-duty Navy, he transitioned to the Air Force Reserves and then Air National Guard, serving in supply and then communications, retiring in 1989, earning many awards, both individually and within his unit.

He also proudly served as a letter carrier for the US Postal Service in Oak Ridge, TN. He was very proud of opening the first full-service passport office in the Oak Ridge Post Office, later opening a full-service passport office in the Knox County Clerk’s Office.

His passions were Tennessee football and basketball and Duke University.

He loved fishing and enjoyed that passion with his son Michael on their boat and their trips away at cabins.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel from 12:00pm until 1:00pm with a Celebration of Life service at 1:00pm. Following the service family and friends will go in procession to Highland Memorial Cemetery for an entombment service with Military Honors.

We sincerely appreciate the love, support, and presence of family and friends during this incredibly hard time.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.mynattfh.com

Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel is honored to be serving the family of Sam Carlton Erexson.

Mynatt Funeral Home Powell Chapel * 2000 Powell Chapel * Powell, TN 37849 * (865) 362-5382 * www.mynattfh.com