Sal Lizard

Sal Lizard, a beloved actor, writer, producer, and professional Santa Claus, passed away on April 16, 2025.

Born on March 23, 1955, in Franklin, Kentucky, Sal was the son of the late Thomas C. (Frosty) Gorham and Anna Ruth Owens. He was the oldest of seven siblings and grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Throughout his life, Sal embraced a diverse array of careers, including roles as a Navy hospital corpsman, emergency medical technician, and information technology professional.

Sal’s passion for acting led him to appear in numerous films, particularly within the horror genre, such as Hillbilly Bob Zombie, The Box, I Am Legend, and Zookeeper. He also produced several films, including Next Door, The Last Exit, and Longwood.

Beyond his film career, Sal was known for his portrayal of Santa Claus, often referred to as “The Vampire Santa,” delighting children and adults alike with his real-bearded performances at various events and conventions.

In addition to his entertainment career, Sal served a three-year term as the president and chairman of the board of Starfleet, the International Star Trek Fan Association, Inc., reflecting his deep love for science fiction and community engagement.

Sal is survived by his daughters, Ashley Sawyer and Erica McWhorter-Adams and his cherished grandchildren, Layla Sawyer, Easton Jaggers, Madelynn Adams, and Mason Adams. He is also survived by his siblings: Samuel Owens (Sandi), Judy Gorham Marlin, Peggy Gorham McReynolds (Chuck), Joanne Engles, Mary Daws, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda, a brother James Owens, and a sister Debbie Hollars.

Sal’s legacy lives on through his contributions to film, his dedication to bringing joy as Santa Claus, and the warmth he shared with all who knew him.

A memorial service to celebrate Sal’s life will be held at a later date.