Thomas Samford

Thomas E. Samford, 74, known as Papa Tom to his grandchildren, was born July 6, 1946 in Odessa, Texas, to Thomas Leroy and Evelyn Francis Milam Samford. Thomas passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2021 in his hometown of Odessa.

Thomas married the love of his life Betsy Jo Janice Phillips on November 1, 1977 in Dallas, Texas.  He worked for Luber-Finer/ Champion for the majority of his career until his retirement.  Dad enjoyed hunting, reading about history, especially American History, researching his family’s ancestry, and reminiscing about his adventures with his two cousins Sam & Garry Ben Samford whom he loved like brothers.

Thomas is survived by his mother, Evelyn Francis Milam Samford of Hobbs, NM, his wife of 43 years Betsy Jo Janice, which he lovingly called “Speeds” of Hobbs, NM.  He is survived by his five children which he loved dearly; his two sons:  Thomas “Kyle” Samford and his wife Ann-Marie of Fate, Texas; Charles “Charlie” Self and his wife Dawn of Farmers Branch, Texas; his three daughters: Michelle “Mick” Fowler and her husband Johnny of Winder, GA; Rebecca “Rebo” Self of Irving, TX; Shelby Foerster and her husband Rick of Magnolia, TX; and beloved sister Debra “Deb” Hyden of Andrews, TX; his eight grandchildren for which he loved beyond measure: Thomas “Austin” Samford, Chelsea Laughrun, Ian & Isaac Self, Abby & Ethan Sproles and Emily & Ashleigh Fowler.

He was preceded in death by his father Thomas Leroy Samford, uncle Pierre Samford, paternal grandparents Thomas L. Sr. & Lucinda Samford, maternal grandparents Eugene & Hattie Milam.

Visitation is Wednesday, January 20 at Chapel of Hope Funeral Home from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm.  As mandated by the Governor of New Mexico on November 5, 2020, occupancy is limited to no more than five (5) individuals in a single room or connected space and facial masks are required (not provided by the funeral home).  Graveside services are at 2:00 pm, Thursday, January 21 at Prairie Haven Memorial Park Cemetery, Hobbs, NM.  Online condolences may be made at www.chapelofhopefunerals.com

Memorial contributions can made to the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, 2222 Welborn St. Dallas, TX 75219.