Johnny Grant Sample III

Johnny Grant Sample III (a.k.a. “Ricky”) was born January 21, 1958, in Waco, Texas at the U.S. Army Base formerly known as Fort Fisher. He was the Pride and Joy of Mr. Johnny G. Sample Jr., and Mrs. Clara M. Huckaby-Sample. Johnny III was the oldest of two other sibling brothers (Dennis and Everette Glen). His two older sisters (Alma and Marjorie) were all his loving siblings.

Johnny grew up in Fort Worth Texas. He was a graduate of Dunbar High School, Class of 1976. Johnny was very active in the Dunbar HS ROTC Program for four years and upon graduation earned an ROTC Scholarship to Baylor University (Waco. Texas). Johnny also participated in the 1977 “Upward Bound “Program at Texas Christian University (TCU).

The Johnny’s Parents joined Holy Tabernacle C.O.G.I.C. in 1968. As a young child he grew up in attending Sunday School, and singing with the choir, and participating in other youth programs in the church. More recently, in his adult life Johnny, faithfully assisted with Security Detail, Parking Lot and Safety Details at Holy Tabernacle C.O.G.I.C.

Johnny joined in Holy Matrimony with Matra Hathman, On August 3, 1979. To their union one son was born: Nicholas Grant Sample (September 21, 1989). Johnny’s employment history began and ended with a career at the Six Flags Over Texas Amusement Park in Arlington, TX. Johnny proved himself to be an esteemed employee for Forty-Seven (47) years having worked in several departments and ultimately earned a promotion as Senior Master Technician for Ride Operation, and Fabrication Departments. Johnny made his decision to retire from working in the year of 2021. In Retirement, Johnny enjoyed spending time with his family, extended family, refurbishing and rebuilding classic cars, loving his faithful Dog “Halo”. Also, Johnny was a Giver, and with his compassionate heart frequently served or assisted any family member, or friend he knew was in urgent need.

Johnny is preceded in death by his sister: Alma Doris Sample, and Nephew: Ferriel G. Burns Jr.

Johnny “Ricky” earned his heavenly wings On August 29, 2023, after a short battle with Leukemia. Throughout his struggle with the illness Johnny remained resolute in Trusting God for his Deliverance. He leaves loving memories to his Son Nicholas G Sample, his brothers Dennis W. Sample, and Everette Glen Sample. His Sister Marjorie Sample-Burns (Ferriel Sr) of Saginaw, Tx. Nieces: Tomeka Burns, and GreatNiece Raven Lee. Niece: Jessica N. Reynolds-Taylor (Lester) and Brother-in-Law Clarence Reynolds. Niece: Alysha Sample-Calhoun (Robert). Granddaughters: Jade Sample, Madoree Sample, Step Granddaughter Adriana Bennett, G/Stepdaughter Avyana’lynn Bennett, a host of Sample/Huckaby Family Relatives. Also,

Close Family Friend Linda Cortez, and several other supportive friends.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gwspencerdirs.net for the Sample family.