Sam Houston Tubb Jr.

TUBB - Sam Houston Tubb, Jr., 73, a resident of Albuquerque since 1984, died in his sleep surrounded by close family on June 1, 2011, after a courageous and inspiring three year battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Rita of Albuquerque; daughters, Cheryl (Peter) Nielsen of Gig Harbor, WA, Holli Ticknor of San Antonio, TX, and son, Sam (Janis) H. Tubb III of Temecula, CA; grandchildren, Kristin, Karl, and Erik Nielsen, Ryan and Rachel Ticknor, and Alicia Tubb; brothers, C.W. "Joe" Tubb, Jon Tubb and George (Paula) Tubb; and several nieces and nephews. Sam is preceded in death by his father, Sam H. Tubb, Sr., mother, Rose Forelle Tubb, and nephew, Casey Tubb. He was very proud of his military service in the United States Army and United States Air Force. He retired from the USAF in 1984 as an Officer after over 22 years of military service. Subsequent to his military career, he returned to his second love, teaching. Sam taught math and science at the middle and high school level, eventually retiring from the Bernalillo Schools. Sam's sense of humor and positive outlook touched the lives of many. He enjoyed fellowship with his church and bible study families. He loved to sing in the church choir, play golf, talk with friends and family, and tell jokes. He gave freely of his time to help numerous family members and friends. He is best known for his larger than life outgoing persona and constant joke telling. Sam was a Shriner and was very proud of all the work the organization does for children. Friends may visit French - Wyoming Chapel Monday, June 6, 2011 from 5:00 until 9:00 p.m. Services will be held at Eastern Hills Baptist Church, 3100 Morris NE, Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place Wednesday, June 8, 2011, 9:00 a.m., at Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the University of New Mexico Cancer Center, 900 Camino de Salud NE, 87131. Please visit: http://cancer.unm.edu/you-can-help/memorial-tribute-and-special-occasion-gifts/