Philip Lanier Sampson

Philip Sampson, a lifelong resident of Young Harris, Georgia, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

Philip was many things to many people, but to his family, he was simply one of a kind. He leaves behind the love of his life, Teresa Sampson, whom he married on August 15, 1998, and his daughter and unmistakable lookalike, Brittany Sampson.

He is also survived by his mother, Dorothy Sampson; his brother, Melvin Sampson, and his family; his beloved brothers- and sisters-in-law, Roger and Regina Hollaway and Paul and Lori Revis, and their families; as well as many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Ulysses E. Sampson.

Philip attended Towns County High School before graduating from Young Harris College, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. To his college friends, he was affectionately known as "Cotton," a nickname inspired by the blond hair that made him look a little like a cotton ball.

A rambunctious child from the very beginning, Philip was always getting into something, figuring out how things worked, or finding something new to tinker with. That curiosity and spirit stayed with him throughout his life. He was a builder who enjoyed working with his hands and spending time outdoors. If Teresa or Brittany ever mentioned wanting something, he would have it built before they could finish asking. No questions, no fuss, just Philip showing his love the way he knew best.

Philip was an avid hunter who treasured the time he spent on his farm, a piece of property he loved dearly. He devoted many hours to filming and editing for Xtreme Christian Outdoors, an endeavor that brought together his love of hunting, the outdoors, and God. He was also an active member of The Cross Worship Center in Blairsville and deeply devoted to his faith.

Philip found his greatest happiness in time spent with his family, whether they were traveling or simply together at home. Some of their most treasured recent memories include Philip and Teresa traveling to visit Brittany during her cross-country adventures, spending a week together in the Outer Banks, and camping near and far. Yet Philip found just as much joy in quiet nights at home watching television with Teresa. For him, it was never about where they were. It was about being with the people he loved.

If you needed Philip, he was there. He worked hard for his family and always showed up for the people he loved. He could be quiet until you truly got to know him, but if you were fortunate enough to know him well, you knew he was one of the funniest people you would ever meet. His humor, loyalty, curiosity, faith, and deep love for his family made him unforgettable. To know Philip, and to truly know him, was a gift.

A service celebrating Philip's life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at The Cross Church in Blairsville, Georgia. No graveside service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Philip's memory to Jeff Deaver Ministries (Venmo @jeffdeaverministries) or Young Harris College.

Philip's absence leaves an immeasurable space in the lives of those who loved him, but the laughter, stories, lessons, and love he gave so freely will remain with them always.