Mary Samford

Mary Samford, age 87, of La Porte, Texas, passed peacefully on December 23, 2025. She was born on August 6, 1938, in West Columbia, Texas, to Chesley Leo Scott and Vedia Audrey Blackwell Scott, who preceded her in death.

Mary devoted many years of her life to her career as a dental hygienist, where she faithfully served patients while working with Dr. Kahn, DDS. She took great pride in her work and was known for her kindness, diligence, and gentle spirit.

For most of her adult life, Mary was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was a guiding force, and she found great joy in church service, volunteering, and her lifelong love of genealogy, carefully preserving family history for future generations. She also had a tender heart for animals and supported animal welfare causes throughout her life.

Mary was preceded in death by her first husband, Kenneth Wyatt; her second husband, James D. Samford; and her beloved niece, Elizabeth Darlene Bruce.

She is lovingly remembered by her family: her sister, Doris J. Scott; her brother, Thomas H. Scott, and his wife Joyce Scott, along with their sons Douglas, Roger, and Jonathan Scott; her sister, Minnie R. Bruce; her niece, Patricia Hernandez, and her husband David Hernandez; her great-nieces and great-nephews Adrian Hernandez, Audrey Gonzalez, Dominik Gonzalez, and Milena Gonzalez; her nephew, Todd Bruce; and many other dear nieces and nephews.

Mary will be fondly remembered for her quiet faith, loving heart, and devotion to family. Her life was one of service, kindness, and gentle strength, and she leaves behind a legacy of love that will be cherished always.