Richard Lee Samples, 73, entered into eternal rest during the late evening hours of Tuesday (June 26, 2018) following an extended illness. Richard was born on October 12, 1944 in Cleveland, OH to the late Carrie “Bill” & Margaret (Lowrance) Samples.
Richard unselfishly serviced in the United States Air Force for 20 years serving two Vietnam tours. He was a teacher of auto mechanics. Richard enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He loved his grandkids fiercely and was very proud of each of their accomplishments. Richard was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend; he will be greatly missed by all.
In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his loving wife of 47 years, Polly Samples; infant sister, Ellen Antisera Samples; and brother, Cary “Danny” Samples.
Left to cherish his memories are his three loving daughters, Beverly Samples, Donna Lockhart & husband Matthew, and Cherie Norris & husband Darrell; five grandchildren, Ashley Greene & husband Alex, Thomas Norris, Joshua Lockhart, Ashtyn Lockhart, and Ameilia Lockhart; two brothers, John & wife Beulah and Don & wife Ramona Samples; several nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.
The family will greet guests and share memories at East Lawn Funeral Home on Sunday (July 1, 2018) from 1 to 3 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 3 p.m. in the chapel of East Lawn Funeral Home with Pastor Don Samples, Bro. Lennis France, and Bro. Warren Vicars officiating.
Richard will be laid to rest with his wife, Polly Samples on Monday (July 2, 2018) at 10 a.m. in the Garden of Gethsemane at East Lawn Memorial Park. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Military rites will be provided by American Legion Posts 3/265.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be sent to American Heart Association (P.O. Box 840692 Dallas, TX 75284-0692; www.americanheart.org; 800-242-8721) an/or American Diabetes Association (P.O. Box 11454 Alexandria, VA 22312; www.diabetes.org).
Online condolences may be made to the Samples family at www.eastlawnkingsport.com. East Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park has the honor of serving the Samples family.
