Funeral services for Deacon Samuel Lee Bonaparte, 81, of Orangeburg, SC, will be held 11:00am, Saturday, February 28, 2026, at St. Paul Baptist Church, 2259 Rowesville Road, Orangeburg, with interment to follow at Belleville Memorial Garden.

Deacon Bonaparte will be placed in the church one hour prior to the service.

Samuel Lee Bonaparte was granted his angel wings February 22, 2026, at the age of 81. His final days were surrounded by loving family members and friends. Samuel passionately touched many throughout his memorable life.

Samuel Lee Bonaparte was born June 15, 1944, in Orangeburg, South Carolina. He was the son of Clinton Green and Anna Liza Bonaparte. He had nine siblings: Ella Mae Shuler, Barbara Buckman, Burnell Shuler and Wilbert Shuler remain with us. Joyce Ann Shuler, Willie Mae Keitt, Willie Shuler, James Shuler and Betty Shuler preceded him in death.

Samuel was a 1963 graduate of Wilknson High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and served proudly for three years. He went on to attend Claflin College, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in 1970. He began his career in education with his first teaching job with Bowman County School District. He has worked for several South Carolina school districts throughout his career, including North, Denmark, Aiken and Holly Hill School Districts. It was then that he pursued his Master’s of Business Administration from South Carolina State University. Samuel went on to teach and mentor students for more than 30 years, before he retired.

Samuel met his wife, Anne Mae Milligan Bonaparte, in 1973 and they were married on December 17th later that year. They shared 52 years of marital bliss.

Samuel confessed and believed in the word of God. He was a Christian that was devoted to doing his part of God’s work.

He was a member of St. Paul Baptist Church and served in various capacities. He was an Adult Sunday School Teacher and former Chairman of the Deacon Board.

Samuel was preceded in death by his wife, parents and five siblings.

Samuel leaves to mourn and cherish memories, two daughters: Andrea C. Bonaparte and Natarsha R. Bonaparte; four grandchildren: JaQuan C. Frazier, Courtney J. Bazile, Ryan N. Franklin and Constance J. Bonaparte; one uncle, Cullie Bonaparte (Helen); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Samuel’s faith in the Lord and his love for his family and friends will be cherished forever. He was a genuine, caring person and his legacy will be present forever. He was a blessing from God and will be in our hearts forever.

Public viewing will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, from 11:00am - 6:00pm.

The family will accept visitors at the residence beginning Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 12:00pm - 7:00pm daily. All florals may be sent to Simmons Funeral Home, 2868 Columbia Road, Orangeburg.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.simmonsfuneralhome.com