Biography: Samuel Leon “Sam” Watson Jr., of Maumelle, Arkansas, passed away Friday, July 7 at the age of 64.  Sam was born in Arkadelphia, Ar. on April 12, 1959.

Sam is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sandy Watson of Maumelle, son Clark Watson (Brittany) of Little Rock AR, daughter Elizabeth Mangrum (Jeremy) of Maumelle, grandsons Joseph, Leo and George Watson of Little Rock, Aunt Johnie Odom (Brint) of Hope AR, cousins Shari Bryan (Darlene) of Alexander AR, Shannon Huckabee of Texarkana, TX and many brother and sister in laws.


Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Leon Watson Sr (Nashville, AR) and Ruby Jane Watson (Hope, AR)

Sam graduated from Arkadelphia High School and received a degree from Henderson State University in Business Management. He was a member of the Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity.


Sam spent his career in steel sales and sales management for AFCO Metals, AFCO Steel, JMS Steel Co and Ryerson Metals.

He was a member of different United Methodist Churches as the family moved to the different places where he and Sandy worked. He took disciple bible study classes and taught many of these classes for years. He was a pilgrim at Walk To Emmaus and volunteered for many these walks. He taught Sunday school and was always involved in the life of the church.
 
He loved all sports but mostly loved and enjoyed the game of golf. He was a member of the Three Put Club in Little Rock and played at many courses and clubs around the state, and the U.S. and was a member of Maumelle Country Club.
Besides golf, Sam loved to watch the Chicago Cubs and all Arkansas Razorback sports.
 
 
Sam was loved by all of his family and friends with his infectious smile and his warm personality. He was a faithful husband and always doted on his wife, children, and grandchildren. 

He fought bravely for almost 10 years with the horrible disease of Early Onset Alzheimer’s but always had a smile for everyone he encountered.

A Celebration of Life for Sam will be held on Friday, July 21st, 2023, 2:00 pm at First United Methodist Church, Little Rock. 723 Center St., Rev Britt Skarda presiding. In lieu of flowers please donate to First United Methodist Church Little Rock 723 Center St,