Richard E. Sample

WILLIAMSTOWN - Richard Edward Sample left this world on Thursday, January 30, 2025, in the comfort of his home.

Richard was born on March 17, 1934, in Graniteville but the family moved to Williamstown, and he grew up on the family farm on Baptist Street. A graduate of Williamstown High School, in his later years he became very active with the Williamstown Alumni Association.

After he served his country in the USN he joined National Life Insurance Company until his early retirement in 1987. He truly loved his job as Records Manager of the Records Center. After retirement he worked as office manager for VTIS and also as a teller for Vermont National Bank.

During his early years he and his first wife, Joyce, started the Sampler Shop Antiques. Following Joyce's death, he continued to buy and sell antiques up until his late 70's. He had many stories about digging through junk in order to find just one treasure.

Bumpa and Meme spent many summers with the grandchildren in tow and a picnic basket in the back of the van as they visited as many towns in Vermont as was possible in the summer months. The grandchildren would always remind us not to forget our annual trips to Crystal Lake and the Tunbridge Fair. Bumpa was so proud of them and their accomplishments and the never-ending love they showered on him.

Early American Decoration was Dick's passion. He was an excellent decorator and teacher for many years. He really enjoyed the classes with his "girls" always able to help them with new techniques while refining old ones. Dick held classes through his 89th year.

He was a member of the Williamstown Historical Society, the Mutuo Club and the Historical Society for Early American Decoration. I can't forget his love of Pitch.  He was so happy when he would take tricks away from the girls.

The Sample family reunions were a high priority in his life. He enjoyed the planning and getting together with old and new family members. Dick also spent many years researching the Sample family and Emery family's ancestry.

Dick's life was well lived, with many good friends and family and always a new road to follow. Be at peace dear friend.

Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Maggie; his stepsons Mark Coletti (Heather) children Emily and Matthew; Aldo Coletti and his daughter Gabby and her children Tripp and Ava; his daughter Kim Sample and her children Kate and Kameron Gallant.  Dick was always so happy to include more grandchildren into our family even though they were new arrivals and just became part of our lives Dan, Cienna, Gabe and Pria. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who have been an integral part of his life always.

In addition to his parents, Everest and Harriet Sample, he was predeceased by his first wife Joyce Wills Sample, his stepson Brian Coletti and nine brothers and sisters.

The graveside service to honor and celebrate his life will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Hope Cemetery in Barre.  There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to the great and caring folks at Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT  05641. Many, many thanks to all of our hospice nurses. Our family thanks Dr. Robinson for his kindness and compassion during Dick's last years.