Delmorris Sampson, Sr.

DelMorris Sampson Sr., a proud U.S. Air Force veteran and a dedicated lifelong resident of Albany, NY, passed away peacefully at the Samuel S. Stratton VA Medical Center on August 24, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on July 14, 1948, in Plant City, Florida, to the late Moses and Catherine Sampson, DelMorris grew up in a vibrant household filled with love and support from his siblings.

DelMorris was a distinguished graduate of Schuyler High School, class of 1966, having been educated within the Albany Public School system. Following his graduation, he answered the call of duty by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force on September 1, 1967. He served honorably for four years, culminating in his discharge on March 10, 1971.

After his military service, he pursued higher education at Johnstown Community College, where he studied physical education and earned his degree. Throughout his career, DelMorris made significant contributions in various roles, including at Sterling Winthrop, as a supervisor at the Tryon School for Boys (where he had the unique experience of meeting Mike Tyson), in Corporate Extension, at General Electric in Selkirk, NY, and with Burn Security.

DelMorris achieved remarkable milestones throughout his professional journey, leaving a lasting impact on the lives he touched and the positions he held. His legacy is one of service, dedication, and excellence.

In 1992, DelMorris began his career with Amtrak, where he served for 20 years in various positions and ultimately retired as a brakeman in 2008. He met and married Mary L. Sampson (Moody) in 1993 and remained married until his serene passing.

DelMorris was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing and hunting. The highlight of his life was undoubtedly the time spent with family and friends, where he thrived on creating unforgettable culinary delights for his guests. Though he spoke sparingly, DelMorris earned deep respect and admiration from everyone around him. He had a playful nature, often guiding his siblings and family with gentle humor, regardless of age. Those lucky enough to know DelMorris would describe him as a beacon of kindness, warmth, and genuine caring, leaving behind a legacy of love and friendship that will forever brighten their lives.

Through his acts of generosity, gentle words, and his open heart, DelMorris brought comfort and joy to family, friends, and all who crossed his path. Throughout the years, he cultivated lasting relationships, nurtured enduring friendships, and inspired those around him to live with courage and authenticity. His unwavering commitment to loved ones, steadfast integrity, and unyielding optimism served as a guiding light in times both joyful and challenging.

As we mourn this profound loss, we also celebrate a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. Memories of cherished moments—simple conversations, shared adventures, and heartfelt embraces—will continue to brighten our days and fortify our spirits.

While we say farewell, we carry with us the invaluable lessons imparted and the enduring love so freely given. May we honor his memory by living with the same grace, empathy, and hope that defined his journey on this earth.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mary L. Sampson; cherished father of; Demetrius Martinez (Jermane Johnson), Albany, NY, DelMorris Sampson Jr., Watervliet, NY, and James David Sampson (Tameka Sampson), Raleigh, NC; beloved brother of, Marsha Gilliam (Richard Gilliam), Mae Linda Robinson (Late Pastor Mackey Robinson Sr.), and his only brother, Moses Sampson (Nicey Sampson), all of Albany, NY; beloved grandfather of, Matthew Robinson (Naya Reed), Sharayah Cancer, (Javon Robinson Sr.) Jordan A. Peterson (Shamera Clark), Jareel Peterson, Alene Peterson, (Che Johnson), SaadiQah Sheppard, Ruth Diop, Jermane Johnson, Amare Johnson, Cameron Johnson, Harmony Johnson, Killani Johnson; beloved great grandfather of Quinniyah L. Sampson, Jashoray Board, DeShariay Yates, Javon Robinson Jr., Karter Sheppard, Elijah Peterson, Marcel Robinson, Genesis Peterson, Skye Johnson, Shihoh Johnson; beloved uncle of, Andrew Houze, Maurice Shoats, Kathy Gilliam, Sonya Robinson, Ricky Gilliam, Macky Robinson Jr. (Shawna), Sarah Sampson; He leaves to cherish his memory his only maternal Aunt, Geraldine Bess and a special cousin, Shorty Jackson; Brother-In Laws, Robert L. Moody (Elaine), Edward C. Moody (Virginia); sister- laws- Cora L. Moody, and Gladys Yvonne Murray (Fred) to include host of nieces, nephews, and cousins—a special thank you to his devoted lifelong friend, Harold Neal (Judy Neal)

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Ekychima Sampson; his maternal grandmother, Betty Jones Thomas; his paternal grandmother, Sarah McBride; his paternal grandfather, Henry Bythewood Brown; his aunts, Dora Lee Jennings, Rose Ann Hunter, Doris Holloway, Louise Mitchell, and Catherine Brown; and his uncles, Donald Brown and Louis Brown.

The Sampson family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Albany Medical Center and Samuel S. Stratton VA Medical Center for the compassionate care provided during his hospitalizations.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 11am to 12pm, at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, NY 12205.