Rev. Thomas L. Samson

Rev. Thomas Lionel Samson, 63, of Trinity, FL passed away unexpectedly on March 25, 2022. He was the beloved husband of Judith Durdan. Born and raised in Meriden, CT, he was the son of the late Leo William and Doris (Rioux) Samson. He was educated in the Meriden school system. After graduating he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served for six years as the Chaplain's Assistant before being Honorably discharged in 1982. One of Tom's greatest passions was his faith. He graduated from Emery University, earning his Master's degree in Divinity towards becoming a Methodist Minister. He served as a Pastor with the United Methodist Church Conference of Mississippi for 19 years. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth Samson; stepchildren, Chelsea Blanchard and Shawna (Wesley) Santos; and two granchildren who regarded him as 'Pepe', Keila and Wesley Santos, Jr. He is also survived by his siblings, Paulette Berube, Laurette (Jerry Sr.) Crawford, Lydia (John Jr.) Belancik, Lorraine Samson and Phillip Samson; his dear lifelong friends Pete Cappelino and Bill Hogan; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his sister Sylvia Monk, nieces Bernadette Berube and Valerie Nosal, and nephew Troy Nosal.

Friends may visit with his family on Friday, April 29th from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 159 East Main St., Meriden and may attend his Funeral Service, which will begin at 10:00 in the church. Burial with Military Honors will follow in St. Laurent Cemetery. To send a condolence to his family, please see: www.beecherandbennett.com