Samuel Smith LaRue Jr.

Samuel Smith LaRue, Jr.

June 23, 1946 – June 24, 2026

Samuel Smith LaRue, Jr., was born on June 23, 1946, in Knoxville, Tennessee, to Samuel Smith LaRue, Sr. and Dorothy Jean Ball LaRue. As the son of a military family, he spent his early years between Tennessee and Alabama before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Sam dedicated his career to the United States Postal Service, where he became known for his strong work ethic and commitment to others, serving as a union steward and advocate for his coworkers. A lifelong learner, he was an avid reader and history buff with a particular passion for American Indian history. He loved fishing, hunting, sports, and never lost his appreciation for a good story or conversation.

On September 14, 1969, Sam married the love of his life, Victoria Patricia Arredondo LaRue, beginning a partnership that spanned more than 56 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and the dream of one day retiring on their own land in the home they had always imagined. Sam was a devoted father to Roxanne Jean LaRue and a proud Papa to Blake Anthony LaRue and his wife, Kim Rosales LaRue, and Damien Samuel Harvey-LaRue, affectionately known as Sammy after his Papa. More than a grandfather, Sam served as a father figure, mentor, and steadfast supporter to both grandsons, rarely missing their games and activities. He especially enjoyed watching Roxanne compete in horseback riding events and cheering on his grandsons from the sidelines in their various sports activities. Known for his stubborn streak, redheaded temper, quick wit, and endless conversations, Sam truly never met a stranger. Family often joked that any quick errand became an hour-long outing because he could strike up a conversation with anyone, and Victoria would eventually have to pull him away so they could make it back home.

A man of deep faith, Sam came from a Baptist preacher's family and later embraced Lutheranism, but throughout his life he remained devoted to reading his Bible and living by the values it taught. He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his beloved wife, Victoria; daughter, Roxanne; grandsons Blake and Sammy; granddaughter-in-law Kim; brother, Michael LaRue; cherished cousin, Betty Jo Atkins; and his faithful four-legged companion, Bluebell, who remained by his side through his final days. His legacy of love, faith, hard work, humor, and devotion to family will continue in the lives of all who knew and loved him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

— Matthew 25:23