Samuel Lee Ankton

In Loving Memory of

Samuel Lee Ankton
January 14, 1951 – February 17, 2026**

On a cold winter morning in Dalark, Arkansas, Bessie Ann Carr welcomed her second son, Samuel Lee Ankton, into the world. Born to Bessie and Roosevelt "Tip" Ankton, Sam was raised in the close knit community of Dalark, where family, faith, and fellowship shaped the foundation of his life. He accepted Christ at Mt. Olive AME Church, beginning a lifelong walk with the Lord.

Sam was the cherished grandson of Nick and Glennie Jones Carr, and his grandfather lovingly called him "Fitzhugh." In the bustling Carr household-filled with siblings, cousins, and extended family-Sam grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the unbreakable bonds of kinship. Though the home was humble, it was rich in warmth, unity, and the values that would guide him throughout his life. He never considered himself poor; every need was met, and every heart around him was family.

He attended Sparkman Training School, graduating in 1968, and later earned his bachelor's degree from AM&N College in Pine Bluff. With ambition and courage, Sam ventured beyond Arkansas, moving to Ypsilanti, Michigan, where he lived with his cousin, Rena Burroughs. He began a long and dedicated career with General Motors as an assembler, working faithfully until his retirement.

Sam had a quiet spirit and a generous heart. He enjoyed playing the lottery and was often blessed with winnings-blessings he freely shared with those he loved. His joy came not from the prize itself, but from giving.

In September 2015, Sam received a double lung transplant at the University of Michigan Medical Center. His recovery astonished his medical team-off the ventilator within 24 hours and home in less than two weeks. Though doctors wished to publish his remarkable story, Sam's humble nature preferred to keep the attention away from himself. He simply thanked God and continued living with gratitude.

Family was the heartbeat of Sam's life. He rarely missed a gathering and made yearly trips to Arkansas whenever his health allowed. Even as his health declined in the past year, he fought with quiet strength and unwavering determination. Though doctors had exhausted their options, Sam never surrendered his will to live.

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Henry Ford St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, Sam peacefully gained his heavenly wings, surrounded by family and love. His transition was gentle, and his spirit was embraced by the same warmth that had carried him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Henry Ankton and Jerry Ankton; and cousins raised as siblings-Johnny Neal, Verdie Carr Jr., and Leonard Harris.

Sam leaves to cherish his memory:

Sisters: Diann (Michael) Epps of Little Rock, AR; Wanda Faye Browning of Arkadelphia, AR
Brothers: Randy (Marshall) Quarles Sr.; Louis Ankton of Dalark, AR; Vernon (Finas) Ankton of Benicia, CA
Sisters in law: Minnie Ankton of Dalark, AR; Mary Ankton of Little Rock, AR
Special cousins: Rena Burroughs and Glennie Neal of Ypsilanti, MI
Oldest cousin: Lou Nauden of Little Rock, AR
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who adored him deeply.
Sam's life was a testament to humility, perseverance, and love. He lived quietly but left an unforgettable imprint on every heart he touched. His journey was one of grace, courage, and unwavering devotion to family. His memory will forever be a blessing.

Visitation 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, February 27, 2026, at Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church 56 Dallas 349, Arkadelphia, Arkansas.

Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 20256 at Mt. Olive A.M.E. Church, 56 Dallas 349, Arkadelphia, Arkansas, Rev. Louis Albert Craig officiating clergy. Interment in Piney Grove Church Cemetery, Dalark, AR by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

Obituary submitted by the Family.