Show-Me State Times

Sam Fox, a prominent philanthropist from St. Louis and former Ambassador to Belgium, passed away on December 2, 2024, at the age of 95. Fox was known for his extensive contributions to various causes and organizations in the region.

He held the position of chairman and CEO of Harbour Group Ltd. In 2007, he was appointed as the ambassador to Belgium. Throughout his life, Fox donated generously to many groups including Saint Louis University (SLU).

Fox also served as chairman of the Fox Family Foundation and held leadership roles with several community organizations such as the St. Louis Art Museum, Boy Scouts of America’s Greater St. Louis Area Council, St. Louis Muny Opera, St. Louis Zoo, and others.

In recognition of his contributions to SLU and the broader community, Sam and his late wife Marilyn were awarded honorary degrees in public service by SLU in May 2000.

"The author and turn-of-the-century publisher Elbert Hubbard wrote that ‘Some men succeed by what they know; some by what they do; and a few by what they are,’" read a commencement citation from SLU honoring him. "Sam Fox is that rare combination of all three — a man with knowledge, skill and the personal integrity to achieve his goals and to set a standard for civic commitment."

Fox received numerous accolades throughout his career including Washington University’s Distinguished Alumni Award, St. Louis Master Entrepreneur of the Year award, Clayton Chamber of Commerce’s “Businessperson of the Year,” among others.

The legacy left by Sam and Marilyn Fox endures at SLU through initiatives like Atlas Week which began in their honor in 2009 focusing on global challenges confronting society today.

That same year they were honored with SLU's Sword of Ignatius Loyola Award recognizing exceptional service aligned with Jesuit values.