Sam Padfield

Jan. 26, 1925 - Sept. 5, 2021 You probably already recognize our father. He has appeared in The Sentinel-record and Village Voice newspapers nearly 40 times since he and his wife, Jan, moved to the Village in 1986.

Sam was born in Longmont, Colo., in 1925. He drove a Sherman tank during World War II, married the love of his life, Jan, in 1952, and soon after had three children — Mark (wife Louise), Gary (wife Karen) and Lindy (husband Robert). A lifelong employee of General Mills, Sam flew the company flag in his backyard on the shores of Lake Balboa and made sure his six grandchildren knew the words to the “Betty Crocker jingle.”

Sam and Jan were founding members of Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church. He was involved in the Shriners, Lions Club, Merry Mixers and many bridge clubs. He loved weekly poker games with his buddies, horse racing at Oaklawn, bingo nights, golf and, yes, even POA meetings. But most of all, he loved playing tennis. In 1995, he was on the USTA Senior Team that won the national championship for Hot Springs Village. He collected many tennis medals throughout the years, participating in several of the National Senior Games and winning a gold medal in singles in 2015 in the 90-plus age group.

Sam would always light up a room with a smile or a quip. Those around him would just have to respond with smiles as well. We were lucky to have him for over 96 years. We will miss you Dad!

Memorials may be sent to Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church, Hot Springs Village, Ark.