Sam Sarpong Laid To Rest In Public Memorial Service, More Than 1,000 Pay Respects

Sam Sarpong has been laid to rest.

On Saturday, more than 1,000 people gathered for a public
memorial to honor the actor, model and TV host, who passed away on Oct. 26 at the
age of 40.

Held at Shepherd Church in Porter Ranch, Calif., the
service paid tribute to Sam’s life and accomplished entertainment career.

In addition to appearing in dozens of feature films, television series and fashion campaigns, the London-born multi-talent was perhaps best known for his work as a co-host for the BET Awards’ pre-show “All Access” and MTV’s “Yo Momma.” 

Longtime Sarpong family friend Kerri Kasem told Access
that Sam’s “Yo Momma” co-host Wilmer Valderrama was present for the
funeral and sat in the front row. 

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BET also put together and presented a tribute video
commemorating Sam’s work, which Kerri said was a
touching surprise to the family.

Sam died after jumping off a bridge in Pasadena, Calif.,
a tragedy his loved ones have said doesn’t align
with his behavior leading up to and including the day of his death.

Sam Sarpong Sr., Sam’s father, delivered a moving eulogy
during the service which Kerri said eloquently
channeled his and the family’s profound grief.

“You could hear a pin drop,” she said of the
atmosphere inside the church while Sam Sr. spoke. “It brought a lot of
closure.”

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The Sarpongs issued a statement following their loss.

“We would like to take
this opportunity to express our gratitude to each and every one of you who have
reached out to us during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement
read. “Our hearts are broken, and we are struggling to come to terms with
the untimely passing of our dear Sam. Your words of encouragement, prayers, and
shared memories of Sam have been comforting for us, and we cannot thank you
enough.”

— Erin Biglow