Larry Dean Sample of Jackson died Friday, Feb. 21, 2020, at St. Luke's Hospital in St. Louis.

He was born Jan. 31, 1937, to George and Novella Hilderbrand Sample in Cape Girardeau.

Larry retired from Drury Hotels, as a telecommunications and electronics engineer, where he worked for 30 years. He had a passion for water, which led to his service in the Navy. He was also a businessman, pilot, gardener, musician, storyteller, sailor, expert technician and animal lover. He enjoyed his retirement, traveling the country in his motor home, along with his beloved companion, Anetha Sample.

Larry is survived by his sons, Robert (Angela) Sample of Scott City, Randy Sample of Scott City and John (Margo) Sample of St Louis; grandchildren, Amber Hays and Shelby, Clayton, Samantha and Chelsie Sample; three great-grandchildren; brothers, Kenny, Lester, Tony and Johnnie Sample; nieces; nephews; and many other beloved family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Evelyn Welter, Pansy Bentley and Freda Hunze; and brother, Gary Sample.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Crain Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, with Deacon Walt Biri officiating. Interment will follow at Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri in honor of Larry's three wonderful dogs, Jake, Sophie and Snickers, or to a charity of choice. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.

To view the obituary or to leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.crainsonline.com.