Wyndell Shawn Mathis (Samuel) a communications manager and self made entrepreneur passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, February 6, 2022 in Fargo, North Dakota at the age of 38.

Wyndell accepted Christ at an early age with the AME church in Amarillo, Texas, and after moving to Palestine, he was a member of The Antioch Church under the leadership of Pastor Roy Duncan.

Wyndell is survived by his mother, Palecia (Lisa) Gilkey of Palestine, father Sammy Lee Samuel of Amarillo, grandfather Charlie Sneed of Houston; brothers, Seth Gilkey of Palestine, Brian Gilkey of Kansas and Devon Samuel of Amarillo; sisters Cassandra Cortez, Kashinda Samuel and Celess Samuel of Amarillo and nephew Kross Gilkey of Palestine.

Wyndell was preceded in death by parent, Ray Gilkey of Palestine, grandmothers Margaret Davis and Fannie Adams, grandfather Preston Samuel, great grandmother Lillie Davis and great grandfather Willie Mathis.

Wyndell was born in Dumas, Texas on December 25, 1983.  He graduated from Westwood High School in 2002 and later received a Bachelors degree in business communications from Minnesota State University-Moorhead in Moorhead, Minnesota.  He then worked in management for several large organizations including WalMart.  In later years, Wyndell was an entrepreneur of his own clothing and shoe company.  (We know he loved shoes!)

A devoted athlete, Wyndell enjoyed basketball, baseball and football.  Growing up he played many sports.  During his high school years he developed into a phenomenal football player.  His next step was Golden West College in Huntington Beach, California where he was featured on the cover of a football magazine.  Upon moving to Fargo, he played minor league football for the Fargo Invaders.  Wyndell also loved coaching and volunteered as much of his time as he could to help young athletes grow.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at 1:00 PM at The Antioch Church.  Burial will follow at Magnolia Cemetery.  Viewing will be held on Friday, February 18, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at McCoy Funeral Home.