Sam Paul Zerilla's Obituary
Sam Paul Zerilla of Memphis peacefully departed on June 18, 2026, at the age of 92. He leaves behind his adored wife, Troy, and daughter, Portia. He was preceded in death by his parents Phil & Flora Zerilla and brother, Phil, whom he regarded as his life-long best buddy. Thankful for his loving family, Patty Zerilla, Rachel Zerilla (Mike Travis) with Nora, & Rebecca Lee (David Lee) with Lucas.
Sam attended Little Flower, Christian Brothers HS, Notre Dame, Memphis State and Doctor of Jurisprudence from Vanderbilt. He proudly served as a Head Judge Advocate in the Air Force, before returning to Memphis to open his law office where he practiced for 60 years.
He had a special musical talent for the trumpet. He played in the school band, jazz band, dance band and was in demand for visiting shows in his youth.
He and his brother had a love of the game of golf and enjoyed years of play with their “Whiners” golf group. They were also fierce competitors as a golf team.
He had a heart for service and helping people. As an attorney, he cared deeply for his clients and was known to give of his services.
Sam was a man of faith who loved Jesus and had a heart to share with others. A former deacon who taught Sunday School, drove the church van to pick up the elderly and helped with tutoring young children.
A visitation will take place on June 25th at noon in the Riverside Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home with service following at 1pm. The family asks that in lieu of flowers memorials be sent to Christ Covenant Reformed Church or Church Health Center.
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