Betty Jean Samples

Betty Jean Samples 73, of Pensacola Florida, passed peacefully August 22, 2016 in Pensacola, Florida, surrounded by her family after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Known to many as Nana, Betty was born to Tob and Olive Schoolcraft on March 22, 1943 in Porters Creek, West Virginia. Betty married the love of her life in October 21 1961, Clarence Steven Samples (Sam). Upon marriage, Sam joined the United States Navy, where Betty traveled and supported him throughout his 30 year naval career, ultimately retiring in Pensacola Florida. In addition to raising their three children she created a career in Retail, she retired as sales manager from JC Penney. Nana was a creative spirit with an amazing capacity for loving. Family and friends were Nana’s passion and delight. Above anything else she enjoyed her family and having all the family at her house. She adopted many friends along the way as family, and become Nana to many. She was a strong, courageous woman who fought many obstacles showing us all how truly special she was and she will always be our Hero. She enjoyed crocheting, sewing, crafting, jewelry making, and above all passing her knowledge to her grandchildren, this gave her the most joy. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart and had a talent that she was so very proud of. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Clarence (Sam) Samples, and their children: son, Clarence S Samples, JR. (Wendy) daughters, Stephanie Noski, Tina McMullen, and very special to her son-in-law’s, John Noski and Sammy McMullen, Nana also leaves behind the light of her life, her grandchildren: Samantha Samples, Steven Samples, Johnathon ( Emma Grace) Noski, Lauren Noski, Samuel (Cody) McMullen, Mitchell McMullen and her great-grandbaby, Stella Blue. She also leaves behind numerous loving relatives and friends, including her sister Jerri Samples (Tony) and brother Don Schoolcraft (Eleanor). She is preceded in death by her Mother and Father, Olive and Tob Schoolcraft, three brothers and her sister Maxine. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Nursing Staff at Sacred Heart for their support in her final days. Even during her last days, Nana adopted several that cared for her and we are grateful for your compassion.

Tributes

Betty Jean Samples

March 22, 1943 - August 22, 2016