Jon was our leader when we were stationed at Ft. Stewart. My friend and I were rather silly young lieutenants and MAJ Samusson let us be ourselves, and guided us (with  humor!) to be better than we could have have been without him. I'm sorry to hear this news

We are heartbroken. We love each of you and we are praying for you All... Jon was our family, and he will be missed be each of us, but his memory will live on in each person he touched. His soul was beautiful and it will continue to shine on each of you. 

Love, prayers and hugs

En nombre de la familia extendida de Jon. 
Jon fue un hijo, hermano, esposo, padre y abuelo increíble.  Nunca dejó de mostrar su sonrisa, su amor y su compasión a todos con los que entraba en contacto. 
Poco sabíamos del increíble e incalculable impacto que tuvo en muchos.  Era humilde como pocos.   Cuando nos enteramos de su enfermedad, el legado de Jon vino a brillar sobre todos nosotros como un faro de luz que guía los barcos de vuelta a casa en medio de las tormentas.
De muchos de los presentes hoy oímos hablar de su meticulosidad, sus palabras de ánimo, su dedicación y su inquebrantable fe en todos y cada uno de nosotros.  No importaba lo que estuviera pasando en tu vida, su sonrisa y sus palabras de ánimo siempre estaban ahí para guiarte.
De sus alumnos hemos conocido del legado que impactó sus vidas de manera inconmensurable.  Más que un profesor, fue una figura paterna.  Les inspiró para llegar a ser más de lo que jamás hubieran imaginado. Los vio antes de que pudieran verse a sí mismos.  Reconocía su valor y lo que cada uno podía llegar a ser.  Les dio el valor y la fuerza para creer en sí mismos y soñar más allá de su imaginación, y muchos, si no la mayoría, han aplicado con éxito sus lecciones en la vida.
Ahora, tenemos el honor de mantener vivo su legado no sólo en nuestros corazones, sino también, y aún más importante, en nuestras vidas, honrando su entusiasmo por la vida, su dedicación y sus enseñanzas.  Gracias, Jon, por tu amor y por ser ese faro en nuestras vidas.
Para terminar, estamos seguros de que Jon nos dejaría estas hermosas palabras,
El amor nunca desaparece porque la muerte no es el final.
Simplemente me he retirado a la habitación de al lado.
Tú y yo somos los mismos; lo que éramos el uno para el otro, lo seguimos siendo.
Háblame como siempre lo has hecho, no uses un tono diferente, no estés triste.
Sigue riéndote de lo que nos hacía reír.
Sonríe y piensa en mí.
La vida significa lo que siempre ha significado.
El vínculo no se ha roto.
¿Por qué he de estar fuera de tu alma?   ¿Simplemente por estar fuera de tu vista?
Te esperaré; no estoy aquí, sino al otro lado de este camino.
Ya ves, todo está bien.

On behalf of Jon’s extended family. 

Jon was an incredible son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather.  He never faltered to show his smile, his love and compassion to all he came in touch with.  

Little did we know the incredible and invaluable impact he made on many.   He was humble to a fault.   As we learned of his illness, Jon's legacy came to shine upon us all like a beacon of light guiding ships safely home through storms.

From many here today, we heard about his meticulousness, his words of encouragement, his dedication, and his unwavering belief in each and every one of us.  No matter what was going on in your life, his smile and words of encouragement were always there to guide you.

From his students we have learned of the legacy that impacted their lives in immeasurable ways.  More than a teacher, he was a father figure.  He inspired them to become more than they could ever imagine. That he saw them before they could see themselves.  He recognized their value and what each one could become.  He gave them the courage and strength to believe in themselves and dream beyond their imagination, and many, if not most, have successfully applied his lessons in life. 

Now, it is our honor to keep his legacy alive not only in our hearts but also, and more importantly, in our lives - by honoring his zest for life, his dedication, and his teachings.  Thank you, Jon, for your love and for being that beacon in our lives.

To conclude, we are sure Jon would leave us with these beautiful words, 

Love never disappears for death is not the end.
I have merely retired to the room next door.
You and I are the same; what we were for each other, we still are.
Speak to me as you always have, do not use a different tone, do not be sad.
Continue to laugh at what made us laugh. Smile and think of me.
Life means what it has always meant. The link is not severed.
Why should I be out of your soul if I am out of your sight?
I will wait for you; I am not here, but just on the other side of this path. 
You see, all is well.

Major , to have be able to say I was taught and guided by you is a privilege. Reading everyone ones messages to you is truly heartwarming. You will be missed by everyone! Thank you for touching my life when I needed you the most ! Give heaven some hell 

Major you were very influential to us, from the times shared all 4 years of high school. You are forever in our hearts. Thank you for your wise words. Thank you for your jokes. Thank you for always being a pillar to our community and our students. I will forever remember you. And I will forever cherish the memories you’ve given us all. Sleep peacefully, rest well! Hooah!

Major Samusson was always amazing to be with. He enjoyed doing anything he could with the students from the JROTC program, and I will never forget the ways he has helped me. When I first heard the news, I didn’t know what to think. He was a good man, and I’m sure he enjoyed everything he did, for family, for friends, and even the students from the JROTC program. May he Rest in Peace. 

A pesar de no haber compartido muchas ocaciones con John tuve el placer de conocerlo y se que era una maravillosa persona! 
Mi Gabby no hay palabras para consolarte. 
Fuerza para todos y dios permita que encuentren la manera de continuar adelante ahora con un angel cuidándolos desde el cielo! 
Lluvia de bendiciones mi corazon! 

Thank you major for recognizing and supporting the leader that you saw in me. At every step of the way you encouraged me to go beyond a version of me that wasn’t disciplined or focused but you found a way to always get me to see things from your perspective. You shaped me into the disciplined and focused women I am today. I thank god for your time here on earth and the class time I got to share with you. Rest in power major you will be missed dearly 

Major was such an amazing human being. Absolutely enjoyed my high school years being in his class. He really gave me a sense of joy when it came to helping the school and community out. It really hurts that you’re gone. You made me into a better man and I will forever hold that with myself. Thank you for everything that you’ve done for me and so many countless others. Rest in paradise. 

In the 4 years I spent in high school, my time in the JROTC program that Major Samusson ran was by far the best. He inspired me and so many others into becoming better versions of ourselves. His ability to mentor and shape young minds into becoming leaders will truly be missed. Thank you for everything Major, may you rest in peace.

Sir, it’s been an honor and a privilege to have known you and to have learned from you. You taught me what it meant to be a good officer, a good leader. I still tell junior soldiers “a good leader always has pen and paper.” Your legacy will live on because it lives in us, your students. I remember every pep talk you gave me; how you told me it’s okay to cry; when you’d time me on the track so I could improve my run; how invested you were when I applied to west point. How encouraging you were when I didn’t get accepted. It meant the world. And I never forgot it. 

You will be sorely missed but never forgotten. I’m more emotional than I thought I’d be. You weren’t just our teacher or our JROTC instructor. For many of us you were our father figure, a safe space, a support system. You will be missed and your memory cherished. 

Thank you for everything. Meet you on the high ground. 

With love, 
MARIE KADLEC
CPT, JA

Class of 2013

One of the only teachers that told me what I needed to hear when I needed it the most. He always encouraged me when I didnt believe in myself and was genuinely such a caring person. Thank you major from the bottom of my heart.

May you rest in peace Jon.
God will surely be by your side guiding you through your next journey.

For the 4 years I knew Major he would constantly remind me I had potential to do great things. I am extremely grateful to have had him as one of the most important mentors in my live; Major Samusson was always extremely honest and willing to assist and any way he could. He was truly an amazing role model. 

Major I honor your soul, your life, and the love you brought to my life. my life a life that knew nothing of a father before you. I find myself in silence silence being the only solace my heart can hold onto. It seems almost wrong to attempt to put into words what you bestowed onto my life and I know others see when the time is through the union of those others that my heart comfort, your absence I’m afraid has opened a new spectrum of colors for my heart, but most potent hue is gray. I try to remind myself that this pain is my strongest evidence of the power the weights and the magic that is love. your love above all saved my life my insignificant life very seldom in life. Do we get to be seen you saw me saw me before I saw me well Major, I see you. I see you and I’m certain our souls will reunite again, but until then, I ask that you continue to watch over me with the same love that you demonstrated in the physical world, I love you so much and I hope you are resting in peace. 

A Single Tree has been donated to be planted in Southwest Region in memory of Major Jon L. Samusson.If you would like to share your condolences with the friends and family of  Major Jon L. Samusson by planting a tree <a href='https://www.fredhunters.com/obituary/major-jon-samusson/gifts' target='_blank' alt='Major Jon L. Samusson'>please click here</a>

Mis condolencias a mi comadre querida y su familia por la partida de Jon.
Tuve la dicha de ser su comadre, siempre fue muy especial conmigo y cuando me case incluyo a Blady como su compadre.
 Disfrutamos el intercambio de recetas y gratos momentos. 
Los seres queridos que se nos van viven por siempre en nuestro corazón por ello siempre estan presentes en nuestro diario vivir.
Te recordaremos con inmenso cariño.

I first met Major Samusson in my second year in the JROTC program at McArthur high school. What a privilege to know a man who would then become a great mentor to me and great friend to my mother. He would continuously challenge me to not only be a better student, but to also be a great citizen. I'll cherish every memory, competitions, and even occasional visits during lunch. You have truly made an impact my life, and to others. I will truly miss you.

Rest in Peace, Major Samusson. You were more than just a teacher… you were a mentor, a leader, and an inspiration to all of us in JROTC. Your dedication, wisdom, and unwavering support helped shape us into better people. The lessons you taught us will carry on, and your impact will be felt for years to come. Thank you for your service and for the countless lives you touched. You will be deeply missed.

Forever in our hearts. ️❤️

I will never forget what you have done for me. I wouldn’t be the man today without you. I can’t believe you’re gone. I always deeply respected you. Rest in peace. 

When I first met Major Samusson, I was a broken teen in my junior year of high school. Little did I know that first day of class, I was going to meet a mentor. Major Samusson always seen the good in me that I failed to see in myself. He knew my leadership capabilities and drew out the best in me during my time in the ROTC program at McArthur High School. He didn’t have to know my back story, it was all about who I could be now and in the future. As I shed tears accepting this harsh reality, I know he’d want me to be happy and I just wish I had the chance to show him the man he helped me become. Thank you Major, heavens Army needed a leader and you’re gonna fit in perfectly. I just wish I could ask one more time “Permission to cry Major”. I’ll miss you sir

I am struggling to put into words the loss of a friend of over 50 years. Jon and I grew up together and were like brothers. We shared an apartment at the University of Texas and through luck and the grace of God managed to survive and graduate. Our paths crossed again when we shared a house while in the Army at Fort Hood. Our road trips to Austin and beyond would make for a great fictional novel. Jon was a loyal friend, a man of integrity who truly cared about others. His love for his family was unparalleled and my sincere condolences go out to them. I share your loss and pray you find peace in your memories of him. I will always miss him. Hook 'Em Jon!

How do you say the words that cannot be said? Major Samusson was such a wonderful man, educator, mentor and co-worker. I was always so impressed by how he helped others and always knew exactly what to do in any situation. I remember he was always willing to help me due to my transportation situation, as I could not get to graduation to help one time, and he let me ride on the JROTC bus. I will never forget him. He was so kind, yet knew how to properly handle student interactions. I will miss you Major, and I truly feel this loss.

He always had a kind word & was willing to help with anything you asked. Aside from being an honored veteran who gave back to his community... and to the kids that he taught, he was good spirited and kind-hearted individual. It's a shame that he left us so soon. He will truly be missed.

This is tough for me to write because I’ve known Jon since high school.  How do you sum up someone you have known most of your life and put into words all the times we had together, both good and not so good?  Jon had a great sense of humor, a great sense of adventure, and a talent for making the best out of any situation, no matter how difficult.  Though our lives - both in the Army and after - frequently took different paths we always managed to keep in touch and maintain our friendship.  I miss him greatly.  
To Gabby and the family, all I can say is I am so sorry for your loss.  Jon left us too soon.

My condolences to the family on your great loss. May God continue to comfort all of you as you go through this difficult time time. 

I was deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Major Samusson. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this time of profound loss. Major Samusson was a remarkable individual whose dedication, strength, and leadership left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His service and character will be remembered with great respect and admiration. The legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire us all. During this difficult time, I hope you find comfort in the memories you shared with him and in knowing that others share in your grief. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

With deepest sympathy, 
Shannon

Great educators are. rarity these days. Major was the best. I cannot express how grateful I am to have crossed paths with this wonderful human being. Thanks for all of the tough love and advice Maj. You don’t know how much it means to me. 

Major Jon Samusson was an outstanding teacher, mentor, soldier, man, and colleague. It was an honor and privilege for me to be his colleague at McArthur for 9 years. I have been a witness to his great  love and dedication for his Army JROTC students. His heart was always with his family, students, and friends. In 2018, he was judging a JROTC competition in Orlando. The MSD Army JROTC team was participating, right after the tragic event at their school.  They had been through a lot and wanted to win for their school and for the three cadets that were lost that year. When they competed, they tried hard, but did not win. They were devastated, especially one of their cadet leaders, who was inconsolable. Major Samusson saw this and spent more than 30 minutes talking to that cadet leader from MSD, praising him and his fellow cadets for their efforts, courage, and strong performance. Here he was, an Army Major and judge at the competition, consoling this young man, who was hurting so much. That is the Jon Samusson that I knew, loved, and appreciated. That young mad he helped that day,  went on to become a member of the U. S. Army himself. He is one of many, whose lives were impacted by Jon Samusson. Now, he has earned his eternal reward and is in the hands of God. May he rest in peace and may Our Lord bless his family and give them strength, all of his former students, and his friends. Thank you God, for allowing our paths to cross with his. 

Maj Samusson had an impact on students across the county, myself included. I haven't seen Maj Sam in years, but this loss still hurts. My condolences to his family.

To our dear friend Jon, who was a super great husband, Dad, Grandad and a dear friend to us. 
We always enjoyed your company and loved our chats that could go forever...
Rest in peace in God's presence.

Major Samusson, thank you for those years in JROTC. The laughs everytime you saw me made me do push ups. I left highschool to also join and serve like you taught us. My first army family was JROTC, the glimpse you gave me was enough to go on as well. Thank you for all the lessons, and fun times. My condolences to the family.  

Major Samusson, was the best mentor you could ask for through my high school years he helped me in every way possible. This man always had his students as his priority and always had a joke to make. May god rest his soul for serving this country as a soldier and a Teacher and a father figure.

I always en joyed Major Jon’s company. He was always looking out for the JROTC members and their families especially during parades. He also has the sane sounding voice as Mike Rowe, spokesperson fir the dirtiest jobs in America.

I worked in the same department at McArthur HS as Major. He was one of the good guys and could always make me laugh. He was kind to everyone. I cherish my time with him. Prayers of peace for Frank and the family. 

I'll never forget you Major ! I truly enjoyed JROTC only because of you. My condolences for the family and friends. Rest in peace.

I am thankful for the opportunity to have known Major all four years of JROTC. He was one the best mentors I have had. He will be missed. Sending my condolences to his family. 

Querido Jon te has ido demasiado pronto y nos has dejado un vacio muy grande en nuestros corazones. Gracias por la maravillosa familia que nos dejaste. 

I knew Jon since high school, at Ft. Sam Houston, and he was always a lot of fun and smiling. He was a lifeguard and counselor for kids at the Officer’s Club. He loved children and could be a kid himself. He left too soon. Gabby and his children and grandchildren meant the world to him. He was a good loving son and took care of his parents. He loved his sister and his nephew. He loved every sister-in-law and Gabby’s mother greatly. Gabby was the love of his life, and he loved her spiritedness.  He loved the Army, his colleagues, students, and the tradition. He was so outgoing and was exuberant. He loved the Longhorns and his childhood and college buddies. He will be so missed, and always so remembered. His love and spirit will live on in all his children and grandchildren. 

Uncle Jon. El mejor tio. He always loomed larger than life—Army man, traveling around with his dog in a red corvette or a motorbike or a VW camper. Always willing to take me to McDonald’s and the water park and the movies and Sea World. Bunkmate over Christmas holidays, dispenser of wisdom.  Then as we both grew older, and way led onto way, I saw him no longer as a giant but as a man. And he was a very, very good man. He was absolutely in love with his wife Gabby and completely dedicated to his children and grandchildren.  And I was fortunate to see first-hand how many lives of young people he touched during his career as a ROTC instructor and mentor. I am beyond thankful for being able to have a proper goodbye. I love you, Uncle Jon. Hook ‘em!

I'm very grateful for the opportunity to know Major since my freshman year and for his support throughout the four years. He was one of the best mentors anyone could ask for, and I will cherish the memories I created in his presence. Sending much love. <3

My heart goes out to your family major,your loss leaves a deep cut in my heart.you were one of those who inspired me to chase my dreams of serving in the army.i pray for your family.

Mi mas sentido pésame por la partida de Jon! Ya descansa en la paz del Señor!  

Major was such an amazing person. He seen the bright side of every situation. He made going to class something to look forward to. He was a great mentor, and I am so grateful to have known him.

I’m very grateful that I had the opportunity to know…

Major always had the best humor and was consistently kind and caring. He was a great person to talk to, and his dedication to JROTC and his students was truly admirable. I will forever miss him.

Such a great human being. So blessed to have him as my instructor/mentor at a point in my life. You’ll forever be missed Major. 

In memory of Major Samusson, a kind ROTC instructor who made a positive impact during my time in his class. My condolences to his family during this difficult time. He will be missed.

He was a great human, and I am very grateful to have been able to have him as a mentor. 

Major Samusson was an incredible person. I truly enjoyed his wisdom he imparted on all of us as students, and conversations we would have during JROTC class. He made a lasting impact on me and for that I am grateful.

Heaven has gained an amazing soul filled with inspiration and care. I’m glad I had the opportunity to have him as a mentor and grateful for being part of my life. My condolences to the family, sending much love and prayers. 

In loving memory of Major Samusson.  Who not only was an amazing father/husband but also an outstanding person along with being a great instructor who some may say was like family to many. He always saw the best in every single one of his students and believed in them. My fondest memories of him were when I would come into class every single Wednesday dressed as success instead of in my uniform and he would always give me an “A” because he acknowledged my love and passion for the program but knew that I was embarrassed to wear the “pickle uniform”. He was an amazing asset to a lot of life’s. Forever in our hearts, you were loved and appreciated by many…

My thoughts are with the family. Praying for peace and comfort for you all. He was loved and will be missed by many. 

You were my mentor in JROTC! Heaven gained another angel too soon! 

Jon eres de esas personas que vinieron a este mundo solo a dar cariño y paz. Siempre estarás en mi corazón y tu recuerdo estará por siempre 

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Major Jon L. Samusson

29 novembre 1953 – 16 septembre 2024

Fred Hunter's Funeral Home & Fred Hunter's Hollywood Memorial Gardens

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