Karen “Sam” Renee Harmon (Wasson) passed away on July 8, 2026, at the age of 67.
Born on November 11, 1958, she was a lifelong resident of Savannah, Georgia, where she built a life full of laughter, friendships, and unforgettable memories. She was known for her big personality, quick wit, and unmistakable laugh that told you, “Sam’s here.”
She was preceded in death by her parents, Betty Lou Wasson and Richard Albert Wasson; her husband, Daniel Morris Harmon; and her beloved daughter, Jenny Harmon Miller.
She is survived by her loving boyfriend, Richard Newman; her daughters, Kelsey (Martin) May and Allyson Burns; her cherished grandson, Anakin Daniel May; her sisters, Rhonda (George) Corbett, Janis (Jimmy) Bryson, and Christy (Chris) Hester; her dear friends, Tammy Watson, Melanie Wu, and Jean Webster; along with many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
She spent many years working in the restaurant industry and was best known for being a bartender. She worked at the Cavalier during the filming of Something to Talk About and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. She also worked and owned a bar for a while called Sam and Harry’s, full of good food and never a dull moment. She loved meeting people, talking with customers, and being where the action was.
She was an avid reader and could finish even the longest books in a single day. She loved cooking, playing the lottery and the slot machines, and was always ready for good food, good company, and a good time. Friends and family often joked that she could somehow smell a home-cooked meal from a mile away and would happily show up just in time to eat.
She enjoyed being around people and rarely stayed home for long. Always getting out, visiting with friends, sharing stories, and making people laugh. She lived a colorful life and left lasting memories with everyone who knew her.
She will be remembered for her sense of humor, her outgoing spirit, and the laughter she brought wherever she went. Though she is no longer with us, the stories, smiles, and memories she created will remain with those who loved her.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, Georgia 31405.
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Amy Walker
I am so sorry for your loss. She will be missed
Deborah Ray
Sam was always the Luce of every event she was involved in it was a pleasure to share laughs and friendship
Brenda Rimmer
Oh my dear cousin, growing up with you and Julie was the best Childhood ever, we were suppose to grow old together like cousins.But now you have left us first save us a place in Heaven until we meet again Love you and will miss you❤️
Lanie Hyland
Rest in peace, my friend. Heaven just got a hoot of a story teller. Love you.