Gregg Sample

Gregg Sample lived a life defined by service, devotion, and deep love for his family. He passed away on February 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Born on July 18, 1959, in Trenton, New Jersey, Gregg was the beloved son of the late Ira Sample Sr. and Remona Dean Sample. From an early age, he learned the importance of faith, discipline, and perseverance-values that guided him throughout his life.

As a young man, Gregg proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. During his honorable service, he attained the rank of U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class (PO1), E-6. His assigned job specialty was Quartermaster (QM), a role essential to ship operations and safety.

As a Quartermaster, Gregg's duties included navigation and chart plotting, steering the ship, maintaining navigational equipment, visual signaling, and coordinating ship movement. His precision, reliability, and attention to detail earned him the trust and respect of his fellow sailors and commanding officers.

During his service, he carried out his primary job specialty with dedication, discipline, and professionalism. In addition to his classified military duties, Gregg was entrusted with the additional responsibility of serving as a chef for naval officers aboard the USS Whipple (FF-1062).

Cooking was more than a skill-it was a passion and a second trade that Gregg embraced wholeheartedly. His ability to combine service, precision, and care through food made him a respected and valued presence aboard the ship. His time in the Navy instilled in him lifelong values of structure, responsibility, and pride, which continued to guide him long after his honorable discharge. Cooking was not only his profession but also his calling. Gregg took great pride in preparing meals that brought people together, whether serving coworkers or cooking for family and friends. His consistency, strong work ethic, and commitment made him a trusted and respected presence throughout his career. Following his military service, Gregg transitioned seamlessly into civilian life, where he built a distinguished career spanning more than 25 years as a mechanic at the Occidental Chemical Plant.

Faith was a cornerstone of Gregg's life. He was a devoted member of Jerusalem Baptist Church, where he found strength, fellowship, and purpose. Known for his warm smile, steady spirit, and quiet kindness, Gregg left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered within his church family.

Above all, Gregg was a family man. He shared a loving and devoted marriage with his wife, Brenda Sample, and cherished his role as a father to Christopher Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Zahdera Capps, Walter Capps, Daquanda Rowe, and Amya Capps. He also shared a special bond with his great nephew, Elijah, whom he lovingly mentored and guided. Gregg spent time doing Bible study with him, pouring wisdom and encouragement into his life. With pride and affection, he affectionately deemed Elijah his "certified Amazon orderer" and "world's best helper," titles that reflected both their close relationship and the joy they shared together. Becoming a grandfather to Raiden Hill brought him immeasurable joy, filling his heart with pride and love.

In knowing that love never ends and that Gregg's spirit lives on in the lives he touched and the goodness he gave so freely. We trust that You have welcomed him into Your eternal rest, where there is no pain, no suffering, only light and peace. Let Your presence bring healing to grieving hearts and remind us all to cherish one another more deeply while we have time together. May Greg rest in everlasting peace, and may Your grace sustain those who mourn until they meet again.

In Your loving name we pray, Amen.

Family and friends will gather to honor Gregg's life at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Martin & Hightower Funeral Home.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to serve the Sample family.