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.

     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.

                                                                                            — Matthew 25:23