Richard Edward Sampson Jr

There is something beautiful about a life well-lived. When someone consistently lives out their values in a somewhat quiet manner, others notice – and are blessed by their legacy.

Embraced by the love of his family, it is with deep sympathy that Richard Edward Sampson Jr. was called upon Heaven to become an Angel at the young age of 65 on Saturday, January 17, 2015.

Lovingly known for his laid-back style and feisty personality, as well as, his good looks and warm smile, he loved everyone and everyone loved him – most of all his family, who will miss him terribly.

Richard was a man who lived to help others, and was well known for this locally. People noticed and reached out for his hard labor, sound advice, loving ear. and open wallet to anyone in need. He deliberately saw the best in others and lived a life of love, while honoring us with memories filled with life lessons that gave colorful and heartwarming glimpses into his person and character.

Richard was relatable and lovable. He was not a man who focused on impressive academic or career accomplishments. He put his creative gifts to practical use by being a self-taught master craftsman, advanced electrical engineer, mechanical expert, and ‘Jack of all trades’ handyman with endless abilities to enhance and beautify any surroundings.

Richard took fashion cues from no one. His signature everyday look was all his: old torn up blue jeans, stain-ridden T-shirt, a beat up pair of sneakers, and always paired it with a dingy ball cap.

He loved to tell stories and give advice. You could be sure half of every story was true that he told, you just never knew which half. His interests included politics, coffee, homemade hearty foods, a tall glass of vitamin D milk, warm brownies, beautiful women, fountain drinks, wrestling, western movies, a mixed beverage nightcap on occasion, and not necessarily in that order. He also was a devoted animal lover whose kindness and gentle soul enriched all who knew him.

Richard is the son of Richard Sr. and Irene Sampson. He came from a big family of nine siblings: Kenny, Dolly, Jeff, Sonja, Caroline, Gary, Mark, Vince, and Pete.

Richard got married at age 20. Even though it didn’t last, he was blessed with two wonderful sons, Greg, 41 and Ryan, 40. Richard was no quitter, however, so he gave marriage another shot. The second time, he was blessed with an amazing daughter, Crystal, 32. Again the marriage didn’t work out, but this marriage was different. It had bonuses. He gained two beautiful girls as daughters, Tammy, 37 and Angie, 34. He loved them as his own and continued to love them forever after the end of this second marriage. He did try to marry a third time, but that one wasn’t a charm.

As Richard’s family grew, he accepted two more additional sons: Dave. 45 and Everett, 35. Richard received even more blessings with grandchildren that will know of him as ‘Papal’ (Hunter-12, Sage-10, Aston-6) (Maysie-16, Avery-10) (Austin-19. Trent-18, Braxton-16) (Tyler-23, Aaron-21, Micah-14. Noah-4) (Jadden-12, Gabriella-8).

The love that he expressed for all his grandchildren was undeniable. Each one enlightened his world with pride in their own unique way. He was proud to be Papal, and his grandchildren enjoyed being spoiled and taught by him.

Besides the growth of his immediate family, Richards’s siblings: Kenny & Gladys; Dolly & Larry; Jeff; Sonja & Nick; Caroline; Gary & Pam; Mark & Terry; Vince & Terry; Pete & Ethel, there are countless nieces, nephews. and cousins, and many more seconds and greats. Not to forget the many friends that are considered family. Each and every one of us have been connected by this amazing, generous man. It is our time to pay tribute and celebrate his life.

Join us at Flowers Leedy Funeral Home for a viewing at 10 a.m. followed by the service promptly at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Rankin Cemetery in Bunker Hill. Details are still pending for a pitch-in dinner after graveside services that will honor and celebrate Richards’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home.

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