Sammy David Shamlin, Sr. was born June 27, 1946 to Sandy Shamlin and Willie Frances Davis Shamlin in Canton, Texas. He attended public schools in Canton. On January 7, 1977 he united with Gyvorn Person. To this union two children were born. He was a member of Lindale Church of God in Christ.

The family moved to Sulphur Springs, Texas and he was united with Mitchell Chapel Church of God in Christ. He sang with his brother Hubert Shamlin in a quartet group called "Holy Ghost Gospel". He worked for Bordens Dairy Company in Sulphur Springs.

On October 25, 2024, Sammy departed this life. Preceding him in death were his parents, Sandy and Willie Frances Shamlin; one son Sammy Shamlin, Jr; two sisters, Linda Brown and Madell Lee; one brother Hubert Shamlin, Sr.

Survivors include two daughters, Detra Shamlin, Sulphur Springs, TX, Jessica (Mickey) Henson, Tyler, TX; 4 grandchildren, Nehemiah, Kelton, Malaia and J'Von. 1 great grandson, and 1 God son. Other family members include, 1 brother Roy Davis, Dallas, TX.; sisters Darlene Johnson, Dallas, TX, Patricia Greenhouse, Lindale,TX and Wanda Davis, Las Vegas, NV. A host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.