Kent Sampson

Wayne Kent Sampson, 81, of Burlington, KY, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 14, 2025. He was born in Decatur, IL, on October 24, 1943, to the late John and Kathryn Sampson. Kent led a life rich with adventure, service, and love. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force and later earned his Master's Degree in Education from the University of Illinois in Champaign. He taught for over 30 years before retiring. Whether as a son, brother, father, grandpa, or mentor, Kent's presence was felt by all who knew him. His life was a tapestry of many roles: teacher, sailor, biker, hiker, pilot, veteran, and adventurer. A true renaissance man, Kents passions and curiosity were boundless. He was of Native American descent and a proud member of the Lumbee Tribe of Pembroke, NC. A lover of fine arts and chocolate, Kent always sought to help others and create lasting memories with his family. His spirit of generosity and joy for life will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. In addition to his parents, Kent was preceded in death by his brother, Cedric Sampson, and his sister, Sandra Pryde. He is survived by his son, Derek (Aimee) Sampson; daughters, Inken Cradic and Kirsten (Blake) Miller; his brother, Steven (Kathleen) Sampson; as well as his cherished grandchildren, Kayla Cradic, Lucas Cradic, Joshua Cradic, Andrew Miller, Nathan Miller, Kelsey Miller, William Sampson, Claire Sampson, and Jacob Sampson. Wayne was also a proud great-grandfather to Jocelyn Miller and Anilyn Miller. In keeping with Kent's wishes, services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. The family invites friends to share their condolences online through Facebook or at SerenityFuneralCare.com. Kent's legacy of love, service, and adventure will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.