Gerald Tevis Sampson of Beaumont passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at Methodist Hospital in Sugar Land, Texas on Monday, December 19, 2016.

He courageously confronted a lengthy illness with characteristic courage, wit and affability, while he lovingly received care and support throughout this difficult journey from his daughter, son and brother.

His nickname “Pee Wee,” was not descriptive of his stature, but rather affectionately captured his entry into life as a premature infant, whose colorful character and persona grew exponentially over the years.

A third generation Beaumonter, he was born on May 31, 1938 to Sade Leaman and Mose Sampson, and raised two wonderfully compassionate and devoted children, Michelle “Shelly” Sampson Thomas and Lance Lubel, with his former wife, Susan Sampson Howlett.

Working as a youth at Sampson Iron & Supply Company, Pee Wee continued a long-time career in the scrap metal business until his retirement at the age of 65.

An exercise enthusiast, Pee Wee popularized the term “Gym Rat” before P90X or Kickboxing and was known as “The Man” by a coterie of friends and acquaintances he inspired with his unique mischief and humor along the path of good health and physical fitness.

Pee Wee conveyed a Paul Newman-like style of enchanting charm, generating imaginative and vivid experiences that were recounted with nicknames and expressions.

His indefatigable devotion to family and forthrightness are the cornerstones of his legacy.

Survivors include his adoring family: daughter, Shelly Sampson Thomas and her husband, Tracey; son, Lance Lubel and his wife, Kim, and granddaughter, Caroline Lubel; brother, Alan Sampson and his wife, Norma; niece, Sarah Merrill-Sampson; and nephews, Micah and Benjamin Sampson; and extended treasured family, Susan and Dr. Jimmy Simmons; Aaron Heifetz; Susan Trimble; niece, Jennifer Lehane and her family; nephews, Mike Simmons, Matt Simmons, Andy Heifetz and their families; and special friend, Paul Kessler along with other loving friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Pee Wee’s loyal and committed caregiver, Hilda Ramos, and the staff and personnel at Combined Glory, whose compassion and care are deeply appreciated.

Mr. Sampson's funeral service will be at 10:00 am, Thursday, December 22, 2016 at Broussard's 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont. His interment will follow at Kol Israel Cemetery, Beaumont.