Sampson L. Rivers

Sampson Lee Rivers was born on April 21,1946 to Nell Davis and Joe Rivers in McGehee, Arkansas. Both parents, two brothers, Charlie Lee Humphrey and Roy Lee Henderson, two sisters, Carrie Jeanette Bennett and Geraldine Humphrey preceded him in death.

Sampson attended school in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. At the age of 18, he married former wife, Ida Mae Patrick (Rivers).  To this union, they raised four beautiful children, three sons and one daughter.  He later welcomed another child, an adorable daughter.

Sampson established a strong work ethic at a very young age.  He relocated to Kansas City, MO in 1964 for more job opportunities. He worked many years as a truck driver for Brown Strauss Steel (B-S Steel of Kansas Inc).  He later retired from Grant Renne & Sons Inc as a foreman.  He was a dedicated worker with strong leadership skills.

Sampson loved playing the guitar.  He enjoyed listening to and singing the blues. He was inspired by B.B. King and other blues artists.  He found great pleasure in teaching and sharing his joy of the blues.

Sampson had a smile and laugh that was contiguous and would light up the room.  His sarcasm will never be forgotten.

Sampson departed his life’s journey on March 27, 2024 in the comfort of his home.

Sampson, our beloved “Sonnyman”, will be cherished and missed by many.

Sampson leaves to cherish his memory: One brother, Robert Lee Humphrey of Lincoln, Nebraska.  Five children, Emmanuel Rivers (Nichole), Christopher Jermaine Rivers (Rasheeda), and Demetrius Rivers of Kansas City, Missouri, Tamara Davis (Michael) of Pleasant Hill, Missouri, and Samantha Denise Medina (Joseph) of Lake Nona, Florida. Eight grandchildren, Micháel Rivers, Kyneisha Rivers, Elisha Rivers, Nico Hall, Christopher Rivers Jr., Jermaine Rivers, Drew Davis, and Dayne Davis, Ten great grandchildren, Ryleigh Rivers, Eri’Yan Rivers, Alise Rivers, Xavier Rivers, Antavious Applewhite, Okyi Brown, Sir Kash Carnes, Justus Rivers, Blu Rivers, and Jrue Rivers. A host of nieces, great-nieces, nephews, great-nephews, cousins, relatives; extended family and friends.