DonRe Sampson

DonRe was born in Dumas, Arkansas. He grew up in San Bernardino CA where he attended San Bernardino Junior College.DonRe went on to become an accomplished musician, singer, actor, screenplay, composer, writer and athlete. He toured Vietnam singing with the Incredibles, he also sang with The Episodes The Jewels, and Al & Eddie Wilson. He had many roles in films, television shows, commercials, as well as narrating voice overs. He loved all sports and even played professional football in Canada and was inducted into the San Bernardino Black Athletes Hall of Fame in 1976. He moved to Salt Lake City in 1969 to work for the Job Corps. He served for one year as the exalted ruler of Beehive Elks Lodge #407 (in Salt Lake City) DonRe's love for music carried over to his love for children. He led a drum circle for the children at Calvary Baptist Church, teaching them how to play the drums. He also presented a program called A Black Perspective to local schools and sang for the boys choir. In 1993, DonRe met Mary Ann at a Smith's grocery store and they married on August 26, 1995. They spent 30 years together traveling, reminiscing and then planning their next trip. DonRe was an incredibly caring and loving husband. He also loved all of the children and took the time to create a special bond with each and everyone of them when they came around. DonRe will be truly missed by everyone who had the opportunity to meet him.

He is survived by his wife Mary Ann Sampson, his children; Carlos Reinaldo Sampson, Adrian Armando Sampson (Eleftheria Dagkli), Aaron Lorenzo Sampson, Madison Novella Sampson, as well as his bonus daughter, Cassandra Smith (Robert) and Sister in law Rozena Harris. Grandchildren; Ashley Sampson, Alyse Dillon(Sampson), as well as his bonus grandchildren: Tenesha Luckett, Chelsea Luckett and McKayla Jones. Great Grandchildren;

Genesis Dillon, Drayton Dillon, Jayden James Luckett and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Preceding him in death are his parents, Oscar and Novella Sampson, and brother Johnnie Epps.