HR1802: HR1802 Givens, Samuel Nelson; honoring the life and memory; condolences
2025-2026 Regular Session · Introduced version · Last action March 19, 2026
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House Resolution 1802
By: Representative Scott of the 76th
A RESOLUTION
Honoring the life and memory of Samuel Nelson Givens; and for other purposes.1
WHEREAS, the citizens of Georgia join family and friends in rem embering the life and2
legacy of Samuel Nelson Givens, a devoted father, proud veteran, hardworking craftsman,3
and man of deep faith whose life reflected service, compassion, and integrity; and4
WHEREAS, Samuel Nelson Givens was born on January 29, 1938, in Tallahassee-Leon5
County, Florida, to the late Lewis and Melinda Atkins Givens, and he was lovingly known6
as "Sam" by family and friends; and7
WHEREAS, he grew up in a large and loving family environment and attended the public8
schools of Leon County, developing the strong character, discipline, and values that would9
guide him throughout his life; and10
WHEREAS, with great pride and honor, Samuel Nelson Givens serve d his country as an11
infantryman in the United States Army, demonstrating courage, patriotism, and commitment12
to the ideals of freedom and service; and13
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WHEREAS, following his honorable discharge from the United Stat es Army, he devoted14
himself to providing for his family and became known for his ex ceptional work ethic and15
remarkable craftsmanship; and16
WHEREAS, Samuel Nelson Givens wore many hats in his professiona l life and became17
highly skilled in automotive repair, carpentry, brick masonry, tile-setting, landscaping, and18
home repair, earning the respect and admiration of many who sought his talents and trusted19
his work; and20
WHEREAS, he was a man known not only for his skills but also for his generous heart, often21
helping others by repairing cars and making home improvements f or those in need,22
frequently free of charge; and23
WHEREAS, Samuel Nelson Givens was also known as an avid drag racing enthusiast who24
loved fast cars and would travel great distances to attend drag racing events, a passion that25
brought him joy and fellowship with others; and26
WHEREAS, early in life, he recognized the importance of a close relationship with God,27
confessing Christ as his Savior and becoming a devoted member o f Greater St. Mark28
Primitive Baptist Church, where his faith remained a guiding force in his life; and29
WHEREAS, on July 27, 2007, Brother Samuel Nelson Givens peacefully surrendered to the30
will of God and entered eternal rest to receive his heavenly crown; and31
WHEREAS, he leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughters, Evelyn G. Faison of32
Havana, Florida; Sandra (Edward) Scott of Rex, Georgia; and Mal inda M. Givens of33
Lawrenceville, Georgia; his devoted sons, Devin Givens and Jevo n Givens; his beloved34
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sisters, Ophelia Dickey, Rosa Bell Richardson, Dorothy Dorsey, and Melinda Henderson;35
his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchild; his devoted companion, Christine Oliver;36
and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends; and37
WHEREAS, Samuel Nelson Givens lived a life defined by service, humility, generosity,38
faith, and love for his family, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire all who knew him.39
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that40
the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory of Samuel Nelson Givens and41
express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing.42
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized43
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the44
family of Samuel Nelson Givens.45
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