Sam H. Farhood's Obituary
Long-time business owner Sam Farhood passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2019, after a prolonged illness.An American citizen at birth, he was born in Lebanon on February 9, 1936, to Halim Farhood and Najla Andeel Farhood. The family moved to the United States in 1946 and settled in West Virginia. Within a year, they moved to Collinsville, OK, and then, in the early 1950’s, moved to Tulsa, where Sam graduated from Central High School in 1955. Earning a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Tulsa, he went on to obtain his Master’s degree in Education from the University of Arkansas.The son of founding members of St. Antony Orthodox Christian Church in Tulsa, Sam tirelessly served his church. He directed the choir, taught church school, spearheaded fundraisers, and served many years on the parish council. His love for, and service to his Lord was abundant, and was evident in his regular attendance, commitment to the growth of the church, and in his everyday being.Although not well known, Sam was an exceptional athlete. He was the quarterback for the Collinsville Junior Varsity football team, and in spite of his small stature, he was especially adept at basketball. One thing everyone knew though, was his love and respect for children. Kids absolutely gravitated towards him, and when others may have discounted their presence, Sam made it a point to make children feel that they were the most important people in the room. This respect for children, paired with his athleticism, led to a career as a physical education teacher. His teaching career in Turley and Tulsa Public Schools spanned much of the 1960’s, until he decided to pursue a restaurant opportunity that would eventually come to define him as an iconic figure to generations of Tulsans.In 1968, he and his new bride, Nuhad, opened Antone’s Import Company in Tulsa, later changing the name to The Cedars Deli. For over four decades, customers came to know Sam’s generous spirit. In the 1970’s and 80’s, with it’s proximity to Hale High School, the restaurant might as well have been the school’s cafeteria for the students on their lunch breaks–even for kids who didn’t have lunch money. Extended family members almost felt bad eating there, because Sam would barely, (if ever) accept money from his family for their meals. He epitomized the term “honor system”, as he set the price for soda fountain refills at 25 cents and only placed a jar by the register for customers to drop in their quarters. Simply put, his costumers became friends, who often, became like family.His humor and wit was appreciated by many. He so loved to laugh and smile, and to make others laugh and smile. He would always–without fail–help a person in need and never say no. If someone came into the restaurant short on money, he’d say “pay me next time”, not caring if he would ever get paid. If a loved one was sick, hurt, stranded or in need, he would be the first one there to lend a helping hand. His home was open to all, and all were always welcome. He had the biggest heart and was full of compassion. He truly loved and never expected anything in return, no matter what he gave.Sam is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nuhad; son Jason; brother Emile Farhood and his wife Giselle of Houston; brother Dr. Basem Farhood and his wife Janet “Nunu” of Oklahoma City; sister Emily Rahal and her husband Fred of Tulsa; his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.Trisagion service 6:30 PM on Friday, March 8, at St. Antony Orthodox Christian Church, 2645 E. 6th Street in Tulsa. The family will receive visitors following in parish hall. Funeral at St. Antony’s on Saturday, March 9, at 10:30 AM.In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial gifts be made to St. Antony Orthodox Christian Church Memorial Fund.
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