In Loving Memory of Darrell Sample

August 15, 1941 - October 18, 2023

With hearts full of cherished memories, we announce the peaceful passing of Darrell Sample, who departed this world at his son's home in Martinsville, surrounded by his loving family. Except for his daughter Teresa, who wasn’t notified. Born on Friday, August 15, 1941, in Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana, to Charles K. Sample and Oris Effie (Joni) Thompson Sample, Darrell lived a life defined by resilience, determination, and boundless love.

A proud graduate of Martinsville High School (Class of 1959), Darrell found his forever sweetheart in Linda Jean New, whom he married on Tuesday, February 18, 1964. Together, they built not just a house but a true home at 6205 Beech Grove Road—a testament to Darrell's determination as he constructed it using only one arm. It was here they lovingly raised their three children: Teresa Ann, Tina Rene Wycoff, and Darrell Jr.

Life presented Darrell with an early challenge when he contracted polio on his twelfth birthday, resulting in the loss of use of his right arm. Yet, this setback only strengthened his resolve. Living by the philosophy that "where there is a will, there is a way," Darrell consistently accomplished tasks others deemed impossible. After studying Accounting and Art at Indiana Business College, he became a talented local sign painter with an ability to paint almost anything—a gift he passed down to his daughter Teresa, who became an artist in her own right. Throughout his life, he served as a mentor to Teresa, teaching her countless valuable lessons that she carries with her to this day.

Darrell's incredible determination was legendary. In the 1970s, while stranded in Illinois with his daughter Teresa, he rebuilt the engine of his semi-truck over a weekend with the help of a kind stranger who opened his shop to him. His adventurous spirit and courage were further demonstrated when he rode a motorcycle through an ice storm on I-70. His helmet was solid ice when he got home, and his eyelashes had ice on them. There seemed to be nothing Darrell couldn't do when he set his mind to it.

A man of many interests, Darrell found joy in building, yard work, playing chess, putting a puzzle together with his sweetheart, doing sign work, attending church, and restoring classic cars—including a 1957 Ford Convertible and a 1957 Chevy Hardtop. His final restoration project, and his favorite car of all, was a 1995 Trans Am that he was helping his daughter Teresa restore, though he was unable to see it completed. The locals still remember his red 1972 Grand Prix adorned with yellow dragons, affectionately nicknamed "the dragon wagon." He enjoyed watching the Rolling Stones, good movies, and ghost stories. A quiet, gentle man who loved the outdoors and the simple things in life, he would often sit outside his home at 6205 Beech Grove Road in Martinsville, waving at passersby and looking forward to anyone stopping by for a visit. His sociable nature also led him to frequent the local gas stations in Centerton and Wilbur, where he would engage in conversations over coffee with anyone willing to chat.

Family always remained at the center of Darrell's world. Though he and Linda divorced in December 1980, they worked through their differences and remained together as a married couple for the rest of their lives. His generosity knew no bounds, especially toward his children. In 1996, he helped his daughter Teresa restore a condemned home in Indianapolis, and after she lost that home to an unfortunate injustice, he provided her with a home at 1090 Robb Hill Road in Martinsville in 2006.

Among the most cherished family memories were the two special occasions when Darrell proudly gave his daughter Tina away in marriage. Looking exceptionally handsome on both days, he shared an unforgettable father-daughter dance with Tina to "Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle—a poignant moment that captured the tender bond between father and daughter. As a loving grandfather, he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for generations to come. His devotion to family was perhaps most powerfully demonstrated when Tina's first child, Whitney, was born. Despite suffering a heart attack that no one would discover until the following day, Darrell remained steadfast at the hospital in Terre Haute, Indiana, refusing to leave until after his granddaughter had entered the world. His discomfort took a backseat to his commitment to family—a testament to the profound love that defined his character.

In his later years, when doctors restricted his driving privileges, he couldn’t go to Paragon, but Darrell refused to be isolated. At age 80-81, he would walk, ride a mower, or hitch rides just to continue his cherished social interactions at the local stations. His humility shone through when he came home one day, overjoyed because someone had hugged him and bought him coffee.

A particularly poignant moment came in 2022, after his wife's passing, when Darrell finally received hearing aids. For the first time, he experienced the simple joys of hearing leaves rustling and cars approaching—moments he wished he could have shared with Linda, but believed she witnessed in spirit.

After Linda's passing, Darrell's heart was never quite whole again. Ready to reunite with his beloved, he spoke excitedly of going to heaven, where the Lord would give him a new arm. His ashes are in the care of his son, with plans for him to rest alongside his sweetheart & family someday at Friendship Park Cemetery in Paragon, Indiana.

Darrell Sample's indomitable spirit, kindness, and enduring legacy continue to inspire all who knew him. A loving father, devoted husband, skilled craftsman, and friend to many—his memory will forever be cherished in our hearts.

"I cherish the time we had together, you taught me so much in life, and I'm so proud to call you my Dad. I miss all the talks, watching TV with you, and traveling. Miss you more than you can imagine, Dad." - Teresa Sample

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