John Sampler Sr.

John Sampler Sr. of Riverhead died Feb. 6 at Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead. He was 89. 

Mr. Sampler was born in New Orleans, La. to Anna Alexander of New Orleans and John Sampler III of Gurley, La. He attended Albert Wicker High School, received his diploma and continued his education in the U.S. Air Force.

While serving in the Air Force, Mr. Sampler was a communication specialist at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, Calif. and went on assignments in Indochina and Vietnam. He received many commendations during this time, including the Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Force Longevity Service Award with five Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor and the Desert Air Force GB-881 Medal. He was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1972.

Following his Air Force career, Mr. Sampler worked for Northrop Grumman in Riverhead. He was a member of Tyre Lodge 91 in Riverhead.

He is survived by his children, Madeline, Marion, John R. Jr., Priscilla and Jessica and seven grandchildren.

A service was held Feb. 18 at First Baptist Church in Riverhead, officiated by Pastor Charles Coverdale. Interment took place at Calverton National Cemetery.

Arrangements were in care of Seay Memorial Chapel.