Don Samples

Donald Eugene Samples, age 67, farmer and businessman, died on June 20, 2013 at his Holly Springs, MS home. He was born in McNairy County to the late William Thomas "Roy" and Vera Avis North Samples.



His mother, Avis, was a loving and caring mother. She provided a strong Christian upbringing and never tired in being there for her precious children. She always told him how much she loved him, always ending each conversation with those sweet words. She provided him with a firm foundation for life.



Don grew up in the Gravel Hill Community near Ramer, TN where he was an avid baseball player and his overall batting record was undefeated until recent years. He began his career as a truck driver for American Freight and later held several business interests, including cattle farming in Holly Springs, a place that he truly loved waking up to each and every day. Don believed in "showing up" with your best foot forward and making the best of all situations. He truly enjoyed his immediate and extended families for cookouts, special occasions or holidays and always wanted them near for these celebrations.



Don's kind heart was reflected by his love of animals. He often picked up strays who ended living out their life on the farm. He enjoyed riding around the farm checking on his cows and horses, often stopping to pet them.



Don was often a quiet man who spoke his mind but never boasted about his accomplishments. He was highly regarded as the best teacher and friend who helped many strangers or family members out in good and bad times. He loved to laugh and always found the "good" in all.



He is survived by a daughter, Donna Samples Livingston of Holly Springs, MS; a son, Don Samples Jr. of Memphis, TN; three grandchildren, Nicole Livingston, Taylor Livingston, and Landon Samples; two sisters, Grace Crook of Memphis, TN, Betty Jo Moore of Hornlake, MS; two brothers, Tommy Samples and wife Linda of Memphis, TN, Randle Samples and wife Pat of Southaven, MS; a true friend and loyal employee, Jose Torres and family of Holly Springs, MS; host of nieces, nephews and friends.



In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Chapman Samples; infant daughter, Debbie Samples; three brothers, Hollis, Bobby, and Billy Samples; two brothers-in-law, Cecil Crook and Neal Moore.



The love of Don's life was Helen. He stated he could never find another woman like Helen. they laughed at each other and with each other. Helen had a way of accepting all she met, even though she might have a joke or laugh about them. Don's smile was never ending when Helen was by his side.