Donald Gene "Buddy" Sampson

Donald Gene "Buddy" Sampson, 84, of Lookout Mountain, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, July 13, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of his beloved family. Born on December 31, 1941, to the late Ott and Mary Jane Sampson, Buddy was raised in the Albertville, Alabama, area before making Lookout Mountain his home for more than 55 years. He was the owner and operator of Buddy's Texaco & Buddy’s Mini Storage for many years, where he not only built a successful business but also formed countless friendships that would last a lifetime. Buddy never met a stranger. A true people-person, he was known throughout the community for his generosity, kind heart, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and neighbors. Proudly carrying the unofficial title of the "Mayor" of West Brow, Buddy was always willing to lend a helping hand, offer a word of encouragement, or simply brighten someone's day with his warm smile and friendly conversation. An avid Alabama "Roll Tide" fan, he enjoyed cheering on the Crimson Tide and sharing that passion with family and friends. His legacy of kindness, friendship, and selflessness will continue to live on in the countless lives he touched. A man of the Holiness faith, Buddy found great joy in serving others and spending time with those he loved most. His life was a testament to compassion, friendship, and community, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Sims Sampson; his brothers, Charles, Homer, Jake, Harvey, Tommy, Bobby, Wade, Johnny, and Bill; and his sisters, Dolly, Opal, Linda, and Gilda. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Randall Gamble of Lookout Mountain; granddaughter, Chasity (Nic) Cornelison; great-grandchildren, Paris Cornelison (Colby Goodnight) and Briley Cornelison; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Funeral services to celebrate Buddy's life will be held on Thursday, July 16th, at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Bro. Royce Cornelison officiating. Buddy will be laid to rest in a graveside service at 4:00 p.m. EST at Gunter Mountain Memory Gardens in Grant, Alabama. Online condolences may be shared at ryanfuneralhome.net. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 15th from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour at Ryan Funeral Home & Crematory, Trenton, Georgia.

Donald Gene "Buddy" Sampson

December 31, 1941 - July 13, 2026