Jason Leon Samford

Jason Leon Samford, 46, of Bellville, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on November 19, 2025. Born February 19, 1979, to Gary and Claudia Samford, Jason spent his childhood in several Texas towns as the son of a Baptist preacher. He later settled in Caldwell, where he formed lifelong friendships and graduated from Caldwell High School before earning his degree in Wildlife and Fisheries from Texas A&M University in 2002. 

In 2002, Jason met the love of his life, Lari, whom he married on October 8, 2005. Together they built a home marked by faith, laughter, and deep devotion. Jason worked for Texas A&M AgriLife in rice research and found great joy in outdoor work and the people he served alongside.

In 2010, Jason and Lari joined Bellville Methodist Church, where they found the community that would shape their lives. His faith grew steadily, leading him to seminary classes in 2022 and eventually into full-time ministry. Jason served faithfully as Director of Family Ministries before being ordained a deacon in the Global Methodist Church in June 2025. He later became Associate Pastor at Bellville Methodist Church, where he ministered with humility, compassion, and a heart that made others feel known and loved.

Nothing brought Jason more joy than being a father to his daughter, Ellen. Their hikes, conversations, and shared love for the outdoors were some of his greatest treasures, and he poured his heart into guiding her with patience, wisdom, and joy.

Jason lived his faith quietly but powerfully, reflecting the truth of 1 John 2:6: “Whoever claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did.” His life was marked by service, kindness, and a steady love for God and others.

He is survived by his wife, Lari, and daughter, Ellen; his parents, Gary and Claudia Samford; in-laws Alan and Arlene Cloyd; sister-in-law and niece, Tamikia and Brooklyn Samford; sister and brother-in-law, Aimee and Steve Wieland; niece and nephew Ben and Clare Wieland; grandfather, Frank Chumley; and many extended family members, dear friends, and his church family at Bellville Methodist Church. 

He was preceded in death by his brother, Josh Samford, and his grandparents, Max and Ethel Samford, and Joyce Chumley.

In lieu of flowers, Austin County State Bank of Bellville has set up an Educational Fund for his daughter, Ellen.

Austin County State Bank

c/o Ellen Lea Samford Educational Fund

PO BOX 1466

Bellville, Texas 77418