Samuel Coulter Crooks, Jr.

Samuel "Sam" Coulter Crooks, Jr., 72, a retired Associate Director at MIT, died unexpectedly on Sunday, November 5, 2023, at his home. He was the beloved husband of Dawn (Amoral) Crooks. They had been married for 28 years.

Sam was born and raised in Lincoln, Rhode Island, a son of the late Samuel and Gwladys (Priestley) Crooks. Sam was a beacon of love and light to everyone he knew, especially his six children: Shelli, Shanyn, Shaelyn, Samuel, Spencer, and Justin.

Sam retired from MIT in 2015 after working there for over 25 years. Sam had previously worked for Brown University Clinical Research Center. Sam was a graduate of Providence College and Lincoln High School.

Sam took immense pride in his children even with the complexities of a blended family. He acknowledged the intricate spectrum of his relationships with his children, which shaped both his journey and theirs. He cherished the times when they gathered around the table, playing the lively card game of Dirty Dog and sharing stories. Those joyful moments filled his heart with love and brought the family closer together.

Sam was a remarkable host, especially during the holiday season, where he would showcase his extensive collection of crazy hats, adding a touch of laughter and whimsy to the festivities.

His passion for both the great outdoors and farm life was evident as he would lovingly drive his grandkids around on his tractor, creating cherished memories. Those who knew Sam got to witness his seemingly contradictory yet harmonious blend of the rugged and the refined, with his designer hats and boots perfectly complementing his outdoor adventures.

He had an exceptional talent for finding bargains, earning him the title of "true TJ maxxinista." These memories of his love for the finer things in life, juxtaposed with his thrifty nature, will forever remain etched in our hearts.

Sam also had a deep affection for his dogs, who were more than just pets to him - they were his faithful companions that brought immeasurable
happiness and comfort.

Their loyal presence brought joy to his everyday life. Sam had an extensive list of hobbies, from antiquing and spending endless hours exploring shops and marveling at the craftsmanship of bygone eras to his fantastic woodworking skills, where he would take ordinary pieces of wood and transform them into extraordinary creations, showcasing his innate skills and passion for craftsmanship.

Sam was a devoted father, grandfather, and pop and is survived by his six children, thirteen grandchildren, and one great-grandson. Sam leaves his daughters, Shelli S. Schofield and her husband Timothy of Smithfield, RI, Shanyn (Shanny) N Turner and her husband Timothy of Smithfield, RI, Shaelyn (Bugga-bumps) C. Cataldo and her husband Paul of West Greenwich, RI, and his sons, Samuel Crooks III of Cranston, RI, Spencer Crooks of Seekonk, MA, and Justin Crooks who still lives at home; grandchildren, Kaylyn Kellogg and husband Clayton Kellogg, Timothy S, Abby, Sophie, Joshua, Brayden Turner; Ashley, Hannah and Timothy Schofield, Samuel Crooks, Amelia and Sadie Cataldo; Casey Crooks; great-grandson, Clayton Kellogg.
Sam was also the brother of Bruce Crooks, Brian Crooks, and the late Barry Crooks. He also leaves several nieces and nephews and their families.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend Visitation on Friday, November 11, 2023, from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm in the "Memorial Chapel" of Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro, North Attleboro, MA. A Funeral Service will commence at the conclusion of visitation at 6:00 pm on Friday, November 11, 2023.

Burial will be private.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit www.dyer-lakefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro. (508) 695-0200.