Kenneth Ray Samples

A Celebration of Life for Kenneth Ray Samples, age 86, of Carriere, MS, who passed away Wednesday,

September 24, 2025, will be held Monday, September 29, 2025, at 5:00 pm at McDonald Funeral Home Chapel.

Visitation will be Monday, September 29, 2025 from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm at McDonald Funeral Home.

Arrangements are under the direction of McDonald Funeral Home.

Bro. Scott Downes will officiate the service.

Eulogy will be by Blake Travis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Otis W. Samples and Clina Speed Samples.

In Loving Memory of

Kenneth R. Samples

1938 – 2025

"A life well lived, a legacy well remembered."

Life Story

Kenneth R. Samples passed away peacefully in his sleep with his devoted wife by his side,

leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love for his family and community. A proud

graduate of Picayune Memorial High School, Kenneth excelled in both football and baseball,

earning a football scholarship to Pearl River Community College. He later transferred to the

University of Southern Mississippi, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in

Chemistry and Business. After beginning his career as a chemist with Nalco Chemical

Company, Kenneth purchased the Western Auto business in Picayune in 1972, where he

established lifelong roots. Beyond his business success, he served as a longtime member of

the Chamber of Commerce Executive Board, was one of the founding members of the

Picayune Touchdown Club, and served on the Board of Directors for First National Bank. A

man of deep faith, he was also a devoted member and supporter of First Baptist Church.

Family

Kenneth is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Geraldine "Gerry" Read

Samples; his four children: Ray (Angela) Samples, Drew (Wendy) Samples, Jeff

(Tammy) Samples, and Jennifer (Steve) Holl. His grandchildren include: Anna (Adam)

Wolsefer, Sophie (Phil) Guillot, Allie (Braxton) Spiers, Jax Samples (Madi), Mason Samples

(Cassie), Austin Samples (Janevy), Nicholas Valente, Mackenzie Samples, and Violet Holl.

He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Luca Wolsefer, Emerson Spiers, Graham

Wolsefer, Piper Samples, and Sawyer Spiers. Kenneth is further survived by his sisters, Joyce

S. Tessmer and Jean Read. He is also lovingly remembered by extended family members

Kay Miller, and Gail and Jerry Mitchell.

Legacy

Kenneth will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his unwavering commitment to the

Picayune community, and, most importantly, his devotion to his family. His impact will be felt

for generations to come.

Acknowledgments

The family of Kenneth R. Samples wishes to express our deepest gratitude for your prayers,

visits, flowers, and many acts of kindness during this time. Your love and support mean more

than words can say.