Robin Joseph Sample (“Joe”), age 65, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away at home on February 19, 2026.
Joe was born on February 4, 1961, in Benton, Kentucky, to James Rome and Ruth Catherine Sample (née Robinson). He grew up in Marshall County, where he learned the values of hard work and love for family that shaped his life.
Joe graduated from the University of Kentucky in Lexington with a Bachelor of Theater Arts and worked for a time as a director in a community theater. He was a creative soul with boundless energy who enjoyed performing in productions on stage during high school, college, and beyond. He supported himself through college by working at a publishing company, in food service, cab driving and in a wide variety of other odd jobs.
During his youth, Joe was a voracious reader who enjoyed chess, debate club, Dungeons & Dragons, and theater. He was tenacious in his commitment to high school football and enjoyed the alternative music scene in Lexington during his young adulthood.
He was loyal and devoted in his close relationships, especially with his adored nieces and nephews. He is survived by his siblings: Daniel V. (Diana), Karen R. (Mark Schaeffer), David A. (Cecily), Beth (Benjamin Joson), Stephen L., Trent M. (Kathy), and sister‑in‑law Donna Sample. His nieces and nephews include Alissa (Brandon), Ashley (Bill), Tiffany, Rachelle (Nick), Megan (Henry), Kristen (Brent), Philip, Emily (Jay), Zachary, Makenney (Ethan), Michaelyn (Dominic), Xander, and Ella. His great‑nieces and great‑nephews are Ashlynn, Addison, Frankie, Noah, Bennett, Elena, Caroline, Catherine, Maia, Emma, Ethan, Anna, Julie, Ben, Daylin, Reed, and Barrett.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James R. and Ruth Sample, and his brother, James R. Sample, Jr.
Joe had a vibrant personality and faced enormous life challenges. He maintained belief in his dreams even when life circumstances conspired to prevent him from achieving them. He might join Eleanor Roosevelt in saying, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to those who have loved and supported Joe over the years. In lieu of flowers, please support the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, PO Box 4527, New York, NY 10163.
The family will gather for a private memorial in remembrance of Joe.
You may leave a message of sympathy or light a memorial candle at www.hughesfuneral.com.
Hughes Funeral Home in Paducah is in charge of arrangements.
