Shirley Jean Roberts Sample, 82, passed away on April 20, 2026, the wedding anniversary of her parents, at the family farm where she was raised, surrounded by th elove and care of her family.

Shirley was born October 14, 1943 in Shawboro, in the farmhouse at the corner of Sanderlin Road and N. Indiantown Road, to James Monroe Roberts Jr. and Helen Lee Pritchard Roberts. She cherished her lifelong connection to the farm and the community where she grew up. She was a proud member of the Class of 1962 at JP Knapp High School, where she helped lead the basketball team to conference and tournament championships. After graduation, she continued to pursue sports including softball, tennis, and bowling, ultimately earning more than 40 tennis trophies over her lifetime.

Shirley shared her love of music with her community, often singing at local nursing homes for family and friends, bringing joy and comfort to those around her. She was a faithful member of Corinth Baptist Church and most recently attended her home church, Providence Baptist Church, where she was married to Calvin Eugene Sample, with whom she shared 61 wonderful years of marriage.

Professionally, Shirley dedicated over 40 years to CE Sample Construction Company, serving as bookkeeper, vice president, and supply manager. Her leadership, dedication, and meticulous care were integral to the success of the company and reflected her strong work ethic.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Calvin Eugene “Gene” Sample; her parents, James Monroe Roberts Jr. and Helen Lee Pritchard Roberts; her brother, James “Jimmy” Ralph Roberts; and her brother-in-law, Lewis Blanchard Jr. She is survived by her son, Calvin Eugene Sample (Dorothy); sisters, Rosa Lee Roberts Blanchard and Elaine Barco (Gregg); and her brother, Wilson Roberts (Darlene).

She will be remembered for her joy in music and sports, and the deep roots she maintained in the farm and town she loved so dearly.

The funeral will be held Friday, April 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at New Hollywood Cemetery in Elizabeth City, NC, conducted by Rev. Charles M. Stevens. Family visitation at the graveside will begin at 10:30 a.m and continue after the service.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Gentiva Hospice and especially Ashley Reid, Kimberly Harris, Maddy Faulkner, and Mary Davis for their great care and support.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, NC is assisting the Sample family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com