Joanna B. Sampson

Born on November 16, 1939, in Lewiston, Maine, Jo was the daughter of Albert Martin and Emma Roy. She was a proud graduate of Lewiston High School, Class of 1957.

Jo was predeceased by her seven siblings and held the special distinction of being the last surviving member of the Martin siblings, a chapter of family history that she carried with her.

On July 4, 1957, Jo married Maurice “Sam” Sampson, beginning an extraordinary partnership that would span 69 years. Jo and Sam were truly inseparable, sharing not only a marriage but nearly every part of their daily lives. Together, they owned and operated Sam’s Body Shop, a family business located on their own property and run entirely by the two of them. From working side by side each day to enjoying life’s quieter moments together, they built a life in which work, family, and companionship were beautifully intertwined. Their enduring devotion to one another was a testament to their love and partnership, setting a wonderful example for their daughters of what a strong, loving marriage could be.

Together, Jo and Sam demonstrated that a life well lived wasn’t necessarily about grand adventures, but about finding happiness in the everyday moments shared with the person you love.

Jo found her greatest happiness in the company of those she loved. Whether gathering around the table for a game of cards, preparing a meal for her family, or enjoying a spirited game of bingo, she appreciated the simple pleasures of being together. Summers were especially memorable, filled with camping at the lake, boating, playing bocce, and relaxing by the pool surrounded by family and friends.

Those who knew Jo will undoubtedly remember her quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and legendary one-liners. She had a remarkable ability to tell an entire story without saying a single word—one look or perfectly timed facial expression could speak volumes, leaving everyone around her knowing exactly what she was thinking. Her humor, expressions, and unforgettable sayings will continue to bring smiles and laughter to those who loved her for years to come.

Above all, Jo treasured her family. She shared a particularly close and loving bond with her two daughters, Kathy and Cindi, and their families. The time they spent together, the traditions they shared, and the memories they created were among the greatest joys of her life.

Jo also had a special place in her heart for her beloved feline companions, Oreo and Smokey, who brought her endless comfort, companionship, and happiness.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Maurice “Sam” Sampson of Lewiston; her daughter Kathy (Sampson) Sullivan and husband Bert of Londonderry, New Hampshire, and their sons, Matthew Sullivan and his wife Emily Allen of Watertown, Massachusetts, and Alex Sullivan of Manchester, New Hampshire; and her daughter Cindi (Sampson) Roth and husband Gary of Killington, Vermont, and their son, Jacob Roth of Salt Lake City, Utah.

Jo also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who loved her dearly and whose relationships brought joy and meaning to her life.

She is also survived by her son, John Sampson of Georgia, and his children: Sarah (Sampson) Ittig, her husband Ted, and their son Robert; Kaitlyn (Sampson) Albarelli and her husband Justin; and Steven and Jason Sampson.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, a celebration of Jo’s life will be held in the summer of 2027, with details to be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society, honoring Jo’s lifelong affection for animals and the special love she had for her feline companions.

Jo’s legacy will live on not only in the family she loved so dearly, but in the laughter she inspired, the traditions she created, and the countless memories that will forever bring a smile to the faces of those who knew her. And perhaps most beautifully, in the example she and Sam set together—that a lifetime of love is built one ordinary, extraordinary day at a time.