Massie will be missed, colleagues say

By Bernard Baker

Published: July 31, 2008

Samuel Massie will be remembered for the number of lives he touched in the Danville Public Schools and in the community.

His death Thursday stunned friends and colleagues.

“We’re all so sad. He was a valued member of our Danville Public School family,” Superintendent Sue Davis said. “He gave his heart and soul to the program and the kids.

“He was an advocate for someone who doesn’t have someone supporting them. With Sammie, it was all about the kids.”

Doris Kelly, a colleague of Massie’s, said he would want people to move forward, “be positive about everything we do in life, and put the children first.”

Massie, principal at Langston Focus School, lived the values he taught, Kelly said.

Mayor Sherman Saunders said Massie was one of the community’s best advocates for students and parents.

“He believed that every child could learn, be successful, and as adults pass those lessons of success to their children.”

“Sammy was also a very

talented musician,” Saunders said. “His death will certainly be a shock to this community, as Sammy was always upbeat, visible and stood ready to help anyone.”

Councilman Ruby Archie taught Massie in school.

“Every time he saw me Sammie made a point to tell people, ‘this was my English teacher.’” He took pride in saying that and Sammie announced it loudly as though it was a source of pride on his part.”

Former School Board member R. Helms Dobbins was a big fan of Massie.

“He touched a lot of young people and helped them overcome obstacles to be better, successful people,” he said. ”He was very well respected. I’m saddened by the news I’ve heard this afternoon. He did a great job with kids who needed his help.”

School Board Chairman George Wilson said Massie was a competent, caring educator. He was a churchman who was a gifted musician.

“He meant so much to the community. Since becoming a member of the school board, I worked closely with him. I saw first-hand how much he cared for his pupils,” Wilson said.

Contact Bernard Baker at or (434) 791-7986.