Jimmie Don Sams "Poppy", 85, of Connersville, passed away peacefully at his home on September 5, 2023 surrounded by family. Poppy was born on November 26, 1937 in Manchester, KY to the late Hardin and Kate (Reid) Sams.

Poppy graduated from Connersville High School in 1957 and went on to serve his country in the United States Navy. Spending four years in the Navy, Poppy served as an aviation mechanic attaining the rank of Petty Officer Third Class. Poppy returned home to Connersville in 1961 and went to work for Philco Ford dedicating 37 years where he later retired as Visteon.

Poppy had attended various churches throughout the area. He had been a member of Blooming Grove Worship Center in his earlier years and had most recently became a member of Crosspointe biker Church in Connersville.

Poppy was a very social person that loved life to the fullest. He was a simple man with simple needs that loved to be with his family. He loved to watch sports, especially football. He also loved to go watch his son, J.D.'s band, play throughout the area.

Poppy will be greatly missed by his son, J.D. (Amy Joy) Sams; his daughter-in-law and caretaker, Laurie Hamilton; sisters, Linda (Gary) Hufferd and Nancy (Joe) Burkhart; a brother, Paul Sams; grandchildren, Lindsey (Jeremy) Crabtree, Brittany (Nate) Vest, Shelby (Curtis) Richardson, Zach Riebsomer, Holly (Cole) Underwood, Hanny Sams, and Heather (Trevor Kelley) Eckel; Great Granchildren, Chloe, Leo, Eli, Camille, Davi, Raelynn "Red", Kayson, Ezra, and Xander; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and his beloved dog – Tootsie.

Along with his parents, Poppy was preceded in death by two daughters, Peggie Sams and Kim Corragio; a son, Don Hamilton; three brothers, Charles Sams, Bob Sams, and Larry Sams; and a daughter-in-law, Heidi Medd.

In keeping Poppy's wishes, his last words he wanted to leave his family is

"I JUST LOVE YOU ALL"

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 from 11:00am until 2:00pm at Urban Winkler Funeral Home, 513 W 8th St Connersville, IN 47331. A funeral service officiated by Pastor Chris Lovett will begin at 2:00pm at the funeral. Burial with military honors will follow in Dale Cemetery.