Michael Sample

Michael David Sample, 51, of Little Rock, joyously reunited with his parents in heaven Friday, October 7, 2011, after being tragically killed in a motorcycle accident. Mike was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on March 25, 1960 to Jack "Coogan" and Betty Clair Sample. Mike loved to say he graduated from the school of hard knocks. He lived an adventurous life, once hitchhiking from Arkansas to California. Mike was a hero to many, and as a teenager he saved his young nephew from drowning. Mike never met a stranger, loved people, and was blessed with his mother's gift of gab. Mike worked as a conductor for Union Pacific Railroad, a job he relished with the co-workers he enjoyed being around. Mike was a wooly, wild, wonderful man, nicknamed Hoghead, by his biker friends. He looked tough on the outside, but had a heart of gold. His hearty laugh and quick wit always brought smiles to those around him. He was an incredible cook and a sentimental man. Mike loved his motorcycle and could often be seen showing it off at area bike shows. His greatest love and proudest accomplishments are his two children, Justin and Makayla, and his extended family. Mike is survived by his children, Justin Sample and Makayla Sample, both of Bryant and their mother, his former wife, Lisa Roberts Sample also of Bryant; three much admired and loved brothers, Dennis Spencer (Marilyn) of Little Rock, Douglas Spencer (Debbie) of Warren, and Samuel Sample (Stacey) of Benton. He is also survived by a beloved extended family, including nephews, Mark Spencer (Kristy) of Warren and Joshua Sample of Benton and nieces, Michelle Wilson of Austin; Kellie Spencer of Perth, Western Australia; Cindy Spencer Langston (Jason) of Smackover; Rebekah Spencer Bryant (Doug) of Little Rock; Sarah Spencer Shera (Cade) of Little Rock; Rachel Spencer Golden (Harry) of Little Rock and Caty Sample of Benton. His cousins are Billy Joe Sample and his family Myka, Matt, Aaron and Briar of Benton; and Mark Sample (Tracy) of Benton. Mike is also survived by his longtime special friend, Claudia Peele of Benton and a host of great-nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Mark Sample, Billy Joe Sample, Toby Erwin, Mike Gundolff, Dean Ryan, Matt Sample and Briar Sample. Honorary Pallbearers include David Roderick, Aaron Sample and Mark Spencer. Visitation will be held at Ashby's Funeral Home in Benton Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. The memorial service will be held at Ashby's on Wednesday, October 12, at 10 a.m. with a graveside service to follow at 2 p.m. in Monticello at Oakland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Highways And Hedges Ministry. P.O. Box 326 Alexander, Ark. 72002-0326.