Major L Samples

Major Lee Samples of Mary Esther, FL passed away on August 19, 2025, after a long battle with Dementia.

He was born in Flat Rock, AL on June 16,1939 to Hugh and Ora Samples.

Major graduated from Kirkman Technical High School and began his employment with the City of Chattanooga in the Traffic Engineering Department as a draftsman working his way up to the position of Assistant City Traffic Engineer. He retired in 1996 after 40 years of service.

Major attended the University of Chattanooga and completed additional studies at Midwestern University, as well as a two-year stint in the Marine Reserves.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his loving sisters, Ruth Samples Lairsey and Vera Samples Lewis.

Major leaves behind his wife Connie, his brother Edward Samples, his stepdaughter Jennie Worthington and her husband Mark, and his former stepchildren Penny Pelfrey and Robert Moss. Major is also survived by several dear nieces, nephews and cousins as well as numerous close friends.

Major was a laid-back happy go lucky man despite a challenging childhood. He never met a stranger and made a lot of enduring friendships along the way. He could have written a book telling his many stories of a very interesting childhood and life. He will be sorely missed.

He loved fishing and gardening. He earned the nickname Pepper Man, for his beautiful home-grown hot peppers that he enjoyed giving away to others.

He was an active member of Elks Lodge 1795, Moose Lodge 2193 as well as the American Legion.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 2-4, at the Elks Lodge 1795 on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach. Please come, dress casually, and share a story.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choosing.

Special thanks to his doctors and especially to the dedicated, compassionate and loving caregivers at Westwood Rehab who helped him in his final days. Also special thanks to some very close friends and neighbors who loved him and helped him.

Thanks to Emerald Coast Funeral Home who assisted with arrangements.