Sam Thomas Fairris, 89, completed his earthly journey, surrounded by his family, on April 12,

2026. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, devotion to family, and a life rich with friendships

and adventure.

He was born on March 18, 1937 in Strong, AR, to the late John Henry and Addie Laura Benford

Fairris.

Sam was an army veteran and served in the Korean Conflict. He spent his entire adult career as a

heavy equipment operator on the pipeline, a career that his son, Tommy carried on. Sam’s

career on the pipeline took him across the globe to places such as Brazil, West Africa, Alaska

and throughout the continental United States. Along the way, he formed lifelong friendships

and earned the respect of those who knew him for his dedication and strong work ethic.

Outside of work, Sam found great joy in the outdoors. He and Peggy spent many cherished days

at their camp on the Ouachita River, where he enjoyed hog hunting and fishing. Sam made

many lasting memories with friends and family at the river and most especially with his

grandsons, Brent and Matthew.

After retirement, Sam was rarely seen without his grandson, Matthew by his side. Whether

visiting friends and family, stopping by the Sonic, or making trips to the scrap metal yard, their

time together was special and reflected the deep bond they shared.

Until his health failed, Sam was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, attaining sobriety

on June 5, 2001. During his nearly 25 years of sobriety, Sam encouraged many within the AA

fellowship.

Sam was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Wade Fairris; his parents; his siblings, Melba

Stewart, Lovie Robertson, James Henry Fairris and Dan Fairris.

Sam is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Ann Taunton Fairris, with whom he shared 67 years

of marriage. Together, they built a life and raised their family in the community of Lapile, AR – a

place that he was proud to call home. He is also survived by his daughter, Donna McHenry and

her husband Robert, whom he considered his son; Grandsons, Brent McHenry (his wife

Courtney) and Matthew McHenry; Great-Grandchildren, Maggie and Kallie McHenry. Sam is

also survived by his chosen daughter, Janis Waller (Danny) and her children Michael and Brook;

Brothers, Jerry Fairris (Jeanette) and Morgan Fairris; Sister, Linda Kay King (Donnie) as well as

numerous nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to Charlie and Cathy Phillips and Gayla Telano for their visits, care and steady

presence with Uncle Sam through the years.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at

Timberlane Health & Rehab, as well as LifeTouch Hospice, for their care and kindness during

Sam’s brief stay.

From one of Sam’s favorite songs: “When He cometh descending from heaven, on the cloud

that He writes in His Word, I’ll be joyfully carried to meet Him on the wings of that great

speckled bird”.

Visitation will be at Perry’s Funeral home on Tuesday April 14, 2026 from 4:00pm until 6:00pm

Graveside services will be at Old Lapile Cemetery on Wednesday April 15, 2026 at 11:30 am.

Memorials may be made to Old Lapile Cemetery Fund, C/O Betty Dunn, 712 Bolding Rd –

Huttig, AR 71747