Samuel E. Porter

      Samuel Eugene Porter, of Norris City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 6, after a long journey with congestive heart failure. He was surrounded by the love and comfort of his family and friends in his final days. Sam was born May 31, 1931, the youngest son of Plenna and Vakel Porter of Norris City, IL. He was united in marriage to Mabel Cozart of Harrisburg, Illinois on July 11, 1952, in El Paso, Texas. After his time of service in the military, they returned to Norris City to raise their family and work on the family farm. Sam and Mabel were married 70 years.

      Sam graduated with a Bachelors in Science from the University of Illinois and a Masters in Science from New Mexico Highlands University. He began his career as an educator at Carrier Mills High School teaching science. For the majority of his career, Sam taught chemistry at Southeastern Illinois Junior College and was the head of the math and science department. Sam helped many students find their path for the future. He leaves a lasting impact on those he taught and mentored. He was a dedicated educator whose quiet wisdom and unwavering belief in the potential of every student left an indelible mark on generations. His legacy will live on in the lives he helped shape. Beyond the classroom, Sam was a farmer to the core. He found joy in raising livestock and crops, working sunup to sundown. He demonstrated the kind of neighborly kindness that strengthened a strong community. The rows he planted — in soil and in hearts — continue to grow. His wisdom, work ethic, and gentle presence will be missed more than words can say.

      Sam was preceded in death by his beloved wife Mabel in 2023, and is survived by two children: Thomas Eugene (Pam Marshak) Porter, of Dana Point California; and Terri Sue (Joe) Swan, of St. Louis, Missouri; his grandchildren Laura McLaughlin (Matt), Holly Jo Rogan (Andrew) and Willis Ann Marshak Porter (Michael Blagys); and Great Grandchildren Tessa Williams, Ryder Williams, Emma McLaughlin, Adalyn McLaughlin, Andy Rogan, Colin Rogan, and Caroline Rogan. The family would like to express gratitude to those who cared for Sam at home and at Wabash Senior Living during his illness, especially Cara Davenport.

      Funeral services for Sam Porter will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Campbell Funeral Home in Norris City, with burial at Mt. Oval Cemetery, in Norris City. Family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Campbell Funeral Home in Norris City. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Southeastern Illinois Jr. College, honoring Sam’s lifelong commitment to growing and learning. Donations will be accepted at Campbell Funeral Home in Norris City. Donations may also be mailed to 609 W. Main St. Carmi, IL. 62821.