Sam T. Houston

Samuel Taylor Houston (Sam) of Ft. Smith Arkansas, Born April 30th, 1967 to Tony and Judi Houston in Hugo Oklahoma, departed this life August 2nd, 2019. Sam grew up in Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana before returning to Van Buren in 1980, where he finished his education. He is a Navy veteran and worked at places such as Protecto, Hiram Walker and a company that traveled the states remodeling floors for Walmart until becoming disabled.

Sam developed sarcoidosis, a lung disease that caused him to rely on his portable oxygen tanks. It only slowed him down a little as he still very much enjoyed tinkering on computers and cars and loved music. Playing his conga and keeping involved with other local musicians on various projects kept his life full and happy. His favorite being porch night where other talented locals hold awesome acoustical jam sessions. He is so loved and will be missed by many.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents Little and Lena Ridling and Nova and Elva Houston. Uncles Joe and Tommy Ridling, Scotty, Jimmy, Johnny, Terry and David Houston. Aunts Marie Beaty, Jackie Ridling, Ruth Bliss, Nancy Hunt and Phyllis Barnes.

Sam is survived by his sisters Ann (Randy) Ruehle, Kerry (Kelly) Franklin and Dana Deason and brother George (Jeannie) Houston. Nieces Crystal (Aaron) Parson, Michele (A.J.) Bates and Leah Houston. Nephews Ronnie (Brandy) Houston and Kyle Franklin. Great nephews Nicolae Medlock, Tyler Houston and Garrett Parson. Great nieces Harvey Ann Parson and Elva Bates.

Sam is also survived by aunts Jean Padilla, Serena Holt, Sammie Simons, Joann Houston, Doris Houston, Kathy Howard, Judy Piles and Teresa Culpepper. Uncles Don Houston, Dutch Bliss and several beautiful cousins and friends.

Visitation is Friday August 9th, 6-8 pm at Fentress Mortuary in Ft. Smith. Funeral service is Saturday August 10th, 2 pm at St. Paul United Methodist church. Burial will be at Gracelawn cemetery in Van Buren.

Pallbearers will be George Houston, Randy Ruehle, Mark Chitwood, Kevin Garr, Terry Buckalew, Pat Clark, Kelly Franklin and David Cross.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Methodist church 4100 Grand Ft. Smith, AR, or to the Disabled American Veterans P.O. Box 14301 Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301.