Gunnery Sergeant Samuel “Sam” Charles Mento, Jr. USMC (Retired), 77, of Havelock, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Grantsbrook Rehabilitation & Nursing Center.

Sam will be laid to rest privately, with military honors, at the Coastal Carolina Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville. A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 2nd at the Havelock Moose Lodge #1797. Guests are kindly asked to RSVP to Phyllis Mento via her Facebook page.

Samuel was born on April 24, 1948, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, to the late Samuel Charles Mento, Sr and Catherine Bonarigo Mento.

Samuel honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps for more than 20 years, achieving the rank of Gunnery Sergeant. His distinguished military career was marked by numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal and Campaign Medal, Meritorious Mast, Good Conduct Medal, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Presidential Unit Citation, among others. Throughout his service, Samuel exemplified unwavering dedication, integrity, and pride in the Marine Corps.

In addition to his time in the Marine Corp, Sam’s passion was bowling. He owned and operated Triple S Pro Shop in Havelock for many years where he trained and taught generations of young people, he was known all over the east coast of North Carolina for his efforts.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife of 55 years, Phyllis Mento of the home; daughter, Christine Marie Grimm of Savannah, GA; sons, Sam Mento (Jenifer) of Lanexa, VA and James Mento of Hubert, NC; sisters, JoAnn Maus of Latrobe, PA and Sharon Metz of Greensburg, PA; one brother, Anthony Mento of Greenburg, PA; as well as several grandchildren, great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews and special friends.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Cremations in Havelock, NC.