George James Samples, age 85, of Medina County, Ohio passed away peacefully in the loving arms of his wife, Judith, on Friday, November 15, 2024. He was surrounded by loved ones.

George was born on December 14, 1938, in Clay County, West Virginia to the late Raymond Terry and Onie Pearl Samples. He was a graduate of Clay County High School before pursuing a successful career as a millwright with Ford Motor Company in Brookpark, Ohio. It was a position where he was highly respected for both his skill and work ethic. In November of 1963, George married the love of his life, Judith M. Hess, and together they shared 61 years of a deeply loving and fulfilling marriage. Their life together was filled with joy, mutual respect, and a deep commitment to each other that served as a model of devotion for all who knew them. George and Judith created a beautiful life together full of shared memories and accomplishments and they were blessed with four wonderful children during their life together.

George endured a long and courageous battle with illness, but his strength and resilience never once wavered. He was an inspiration to all who knew him, facing each new challenge with his gifts of grace, determination, and humility. He leaves behind his legacy and example of strength, superior work ethic, wonderful sense of humor, kindness and love for his family. His warm and loving spirit has left a lasting impact and changed the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Judith M. (Hess) Samples; his two devoted daughters, Lisa (Mike) Fairweather and Shelly (Mark) Strouse; his loving son, Bruce (Sharon) Samples; his cherished grandchildren, including Amanda (Michael) Parks and Courtney Strouse and his five other grandchildren; his twelve great grandchildren including Ryder and Rylie Parks and ten other great grandchildren; his loving sisters, Ethel Mullins and Pug Deboard; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. His family will forever carry his memory, be grateful for his example and hold on to the deep love, kindness, and warmth that he shared freely throughout his lifetime.

George is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Pearl Samples; his oldest son, James Burton Samples; and his two brothers and four sisters.

The family will hold a Celebration of George's Life and Legacy in the spring of 2025. This special event will provide family and friends the opportunity to come together, share memories and celebrate his enduring legacy and the impact he had on all of our lives. Details will be updated next year on the Waite Funeral Home website. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.waitefuneralhome.com.