James "Jim" Samples III

James “Jim” Samples, age 81, of Oregon, Ohio passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025 at Bay Park Community Hospital. He was born on January 16, 1943 in Hollywood, Florida Mary Helen and James M. Samples II. Jim attended Woodward High School and worked for Chrysler Jeep for over 20 years. He was known as Papa Smurf to many. Jim enjoyed riding motorcycles, traveling, and playing games. In his spare time, he collected eagles, and old fashion cars and motorcycles. He will be dearly missed.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Betty Samples; daughters, Jane (Bill) Shaffer, Linda (Jason) Brown, and Betty (Marvin) Dickman; grandchildren, Keith Kegley, James, Tiffany, Patricia (Andy) Wettel, Malynda Dutcher, and Micheal (Ashley) Samples; great-grandchildren, Navaia, Hazel, Rosalee, Karter, Kylie, Silas, and Rolan; and sister, Joan. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Samples II and Mary Helen Drake; daughter, Carol Marsh, and sister, “Tiny” Brown. 

Family and friends may visit Freck Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 10-12:00 p.m. where services will take place at 12 p.m. Burial will follow at Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.