John Dexter Sammons

John Dexter Sammons passed from this earthly life Friday, September 18, 2015 in Weatherford, TX.  He was born in San Antonio, TX on February 10, 1939 to John and Jewel Sammons.
Dexter is survived by his loving and faithful wife of 57 years, Barbara “Bonnie” Sammons; his daughters, Vickie Walters, Melissa Willison, and Cathy Paden; his grandchildren Kelli Carter, Jordan Hughes, Tyler Willison, Carly Carter, Justin Willison, Dillon Willison, and Eli Paden; his brother Ed Sammons of Florida, and many nieces and nephews.
Dexter graduated from Burbank Vocational High School in 1957.  After marrying Bonnie, they moved to Henderson, TN where he earned his Associate of Arts degree in 1960.  He attended Harding University next and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1962.  He continued his education at Harding Graduate School earning a Master’s of Religious Education in 1966.  In 1969 he earned a Master’s in Theology from Abilene Christian University.  He received his teaching certificate from North Texas State University.
While attending Harding Graduate School, Dexter received his first pulpit position in Tyranza, AR.  After receiving his Master’s degree, he and Bonnie moved to Humboldt, TN where he preached for almost 3 years.  Before moving to Weatherford, TX, Dexter also filled the pulpit in McCrory, AR for a year.  Upon moving to Weatherford, TX in 1966 he became the Bible Chair Director at Weatherford Junior College (supported by South Main Church of Christ).  He also started preaching at Authon Church of Christ.  After 5 years of service as the Bible Chair Director ended he began teaching history at the high school and driving a school bus before and after school. He wrote and published Outlines of the New Testament for a high school course he taught at the church for college credit.
Dexter was very active in the Weatherford community.  He was a member and president of the Optimist Club.  He was the president of the Little League Baseball program one year, while also umpiring with the program for 26 years.  He helped bring girls softball to Weatherford through the Little League program, and was also invited to umpire at the Little League Girls Softball World Series two times.  
John Dexter Sammons was a member of the Masonic Lodge where he was Master of the Phoenix Lodge #375 and Grand Champlain of the Grand Lodge.  While he was Master and Fellow of the Texas Lodge of Research he published a book entitled Early History of Phoenix Lodge.
 


A memorial service celebrating his life will be held Thursday, September 24, 2015 at South Main Church of Christ in Weatherford, TX at 10:30 a.m.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in his name.