Donald L. Sampler, Sr. (Don) died at his home in Stone Mountain, Georgia on June 20, 2022. Don is survived by his sons Larry (Barbara) and Chuck (Patricia), and his daughter Donna (Kevin). He was also loved by three grandchildren, Kevin (Rachel), Kent (Virginia), and Lindsay, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Sampler and Francis Calloway, and his wife of 49 years, Emily Jane (Tidwell) Sampler.
Don was a native of Atlanta, born on January 29th, 1934. He attended Bass High School and, upon graduation in 1952 enlisted in the US Marine Corps intending to become a pilot. Instead, he met Ms. Emily Jane Tidwell and was smitten. After his tour in the Marines, he married Ms. Tidwell, attended Georgia Tech, and later graduated from Southern Tech. He went on to become a licensed Professional Engineer and was later elected President of the National Association of Plumbing Engineers in 1976.
Don was a leader in the churches he attended, most recently Tucker United Methodist Church. He completed seminary training for the United Methodist Church but chose to practice his faith as a layperson, serving in a variety of roles and ministries. He was a faithful and valuable member of the choir for many years. He also served in various ministries both at Tucker First UMC and other locations. He worked with people who were learning to manage grief as well as those who had different addictions. He spent his life in service to others and will be missed dearly.
A visitation for Donald will be held Monday, June 27, 2022 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Floral Hills Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 3150 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker, GA 30084. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, June 28, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Tucker First United Methodist Church, 5095 Lavista Road, Tucker, GA 30084.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.floralhillsfuneral.com for the Sampler family.
