Harley Baxter Sampson

1944 - 2021

Harley Baxter Sampson

Asheville - Harley Baxter Sampson, 76, was led to the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by the angels that had been watching over him during his long and courageous battle with heart and renal disease. He died at home Monday, February 1, 2021, with his loving wife at his side.

Harley was born February 14, 1944 in Buncombe County to the late Charlie and Estelle Sampson. He was also preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his son, Thelma Huntley Sampson, and his brothers Harold, Herbert and Hubert Sampson.

Harley attended Erwin High School, Class of 1962, and enjoyed getting together with his classmates. After retiring from the Asheville Fire Department as a firefighter, he did roofing and lawn work.

Harley was a member of Acton United Methodist Church. He was also a member of Royal Arcannum, having served as Regent of Rhododendron Council and Grand Regent of the Carolinas Council.

Harley is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart, Judy Dockrey Sampson; his son, Dwight Sampson and wife Tina; his grandson and "apple of his eye" Dee Jay Sampson; brothers, Howard Sampson (Ellen) and Hal Sampson; sister-in-law, Mary E. Sampson; and a number of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at Acton United Methodist Church, with the Asheville Firefighters Honor Guard.

The family will have a private graveside service conducted by Rev. Tim Hyatt.

For those wishing to pay their respects, Mr. Sampson will lie in repose from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 5, at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue.

In lieu of flowers, please consider the following: Acton United Methodist Church, 171 Sand Hill School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806, or Victory Baptist Church Meals for Seniors Program, 80 Olivette Rd., Asheville, NC 28804, or the Asheville Firefighters Association, 9 SW Pack Square, Ste. 203, Asheville, NC 28801.

The online memorial is available at www.grocefuneralhome.com.