August 13, 1930 – July 7, 2023
Dr. Samuel E. Busch departed this life on Friday, July 7, 2023, at the Bon Secours Southside Medical Center, Petersburg, VA. He was born on August 13, 1930, to the union of Samuel and Ida Busch of Canonsburg, PA. He was preceded in death by by his parents and his daughters, Sheryl L. Busch and Susan Busch Bell.
Dr. Samuel Busch was a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a B.S. degree in Secondary Education. After graduating, he entered the United States Army, serving in the Medical Service Corps. Upon completion of his tour, Dr. Busch entered Howard University Medical College where he received his Medical Degree in 1961. Dr. Busch performed his internship at the Texas Medical Center in San Antonio, TX. His Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency occurred at Brooklyn Cumberland Hospital in New York, NY. He was certified by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 1972 and became a Fellow in 1973.
Dr. Samuel Busch was the Second African American licensed to practice OB-GYN in Virginia. He retired after 28 years of service, delivering more than 5000 babies and performing an undermined number of surgeries. Because of Dr. Busch, women of color finally began to receive dignified care for themselves and their unborn babies throughout the Petersburg and surrounding areas. In order to remain on the staff at the hospital, Dr. Busch was required to attend various lectures and conferences in Africa, China, Japan, Russia and throughout the United States. He was always recognized as the doctor with greatest respect and support to the Nursing staff. Their appreciation was demonstrated throughout his illness with round-the-clock care when needed.
Dr. Busch learned to hunt at an early age. Bird hunting in the United States and Canada was a special part of his life. His greatest love was riding his Tennessee Walking Horses, for which he received many first-place ribbons. He was a proud member of the Charles City Saddle Club and the Friendship Club in Burlington, NC. He also participated in Field Trials with his dogs. Both his horses and dogs brought much joy and gratitude to his life.
On August 7, 2018, Chesterfield County dedicated the Concession Building at Ettrick Park to Dr. Samuel Busch for his work in the community for more than 40 years. He was known to promote educational and other opportunities for youth throughout the community and schools.
Dr. Samuel E. Busch was a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He also was a member of the Union Grove Baptist Church, South Chesterfield, VA.
Dr. Sam leaves to cherish his memories: his wife of 65 years, Dr. Joyce M. Busch; sister, Vanetta Lewis of Pennsylvania; and many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends too numerous to name.
Services will be held 12 Noon, Thursday, July 20, 2023, at Mount Olivet Baptist Church, 800 Augusta Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Wesley K. McLaughlin, Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Rebecca Branch-Griffin, eulogist. The interment to follow at Blandford Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at the funeral establishment.
J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.