Robert Russell Sampson

Obituary For Robert Russell Sampson

Dr. Robert Russell Sampson, passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Moses Cone Memorial Hospital.

Dr.Robert Russell Sampson was born on October 15, 1924, in Clinton, North Carolina, to the late Frank Jerome and Annie Curry Sampson. Robert and his siblings worked on the farm of their uncle, their mother’s brother, during their formative years.

Although Dr.Robert Russell Sampson did not initially aspire to become an educator, he attended Fayetteville State Teachers’ College (now Fayetteville State University). After graduating, Robert enlisted in the United States Army in 1943. His military journey took him to Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, North Carolina; Fort Benning, Georgia; Camp Shanks, New York; and finally, Glasgow, Scotland. He served in World War II for three years in the European Theatre as a Staff Sergeant.

Dr.Robert Russell Sampson dreamed of becoming a medical doctor, but financial constraints, even with the GI Bill, made this goal unattainable. His uncle, a medical doctor and one of his mentors, suggested that Robert consider a career in pharmacy. Following his military service, Robert attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., where he achieved his dream of becoming a pharmacist.

Upon completing his studies, Robert returned to Clinton, North Carolina, where he became the first African American pharmacist intern to work for Walgreens. In 1953, he opened his first pharmacy in Clinton. Three years later, in 1956, Sampson Pharmacy was relocated to East Market Street in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Despite his demanding schedule, Robert found time to enjoy his hobbies. He loved hunting, fishing, and working in his garden.

Dr.Robert Russell Sampson was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife, Dr. Myrtle Boykin Sampson. He is survived by his son, Frank “Ricky” Sampson of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; his sister-in-law, Dr. Bertha Boykin Todd of Wilmington, North Carolina; his nieces: Cheryl Sampson Ramsey of Gary, Indiana, and Rita D. Todd of Wilmington, North Carolina; and his nephews: Maurice Sampson (Wilma) of Fayetteville, North Carolina; Robert “Moe” Sampson of Charlotte, North Carolina; Clarence C. Cooper of Fairburn, Georgia; Brian E. Todd of Atlanta, Georgia; Derrick E. Boykin of Atlanta, Georgia; and Dr. Stephen McCary-Henderson of Greensboro, North Carolina.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025 1:30pm Providence Baptist Church 1106 Tuscaloosa Street Greensboro, North Carolina. Visitation 1pm.

Burial will follow at Lakeview Memorial Park 3600 North O'Henry Boulevard Greensboro, North Carolina.