Charles Howard Sampson

Charles Howard Sampson, Ph.D. was born on August 24, 1936, in Johnson City Tennessee, the oldest of four children born to John and Aleen (Taffe) Sampson. He attended Manual High School in Louisville, Kentucky, where he played tuba in the concert and marching bands. During an all -state band event, he first encountered his future wife, Emily. They met again at the University of Kentucky when both enrolled in the music department. They completed undergraduate degrees in music in1957 and married the day after graduation. He then realized that the prospects for employment using his math skills were a much better road to financial stability and re-enrolled at the same university in the math department, earning his bachelor’s degree in math in 1959. Charles’ ability in mathematics quickly came to the attention of his professors who recommended him for a scholarship. He continued his studies at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Again, his excellence was rewarded and he was given a National Science Fellowship to study at the College de France in Paris where he worked with Szolem Mandebrojt. After a year abroad, he returned to Rice where he received his Ph. D. in 1968. Charles taught at Texas A and M for two years and then was hired by National Cash Register in Dayton, Ohio. By this time the family had grown; son Ian was born in 1965 and Evan was born in 1967. National Cash Register moved the family to San Diego in 1973 as part of their developing computer program. Charles left NCR to work at Computer Sciences Corporation where he remained until retirement. He was highly regarded as a systems analyst and was twice sent to Germany to instruct their Navy in ADA. His work enabled communication between ships. Charles never lost his love of music, but the tuba stayed in Kentucky. He sang with the San Diego Master Chorale for many years where he developed life-long friendships. He also sang in the choir of his parish, St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church. Charles supported many charities in his life including WGBH, The San Diego Zoo, St. Jude’s Hospital, and Episcopal Relief and Development. After he retired, Charles volunteered his time as a tutor at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal church where he also served on the vestry. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Emily Clyde Walter, his children Ian H. Sampson, Evan C. Sampson and Kathleen Walsh Sampson. Charles had three grandchildren, Greg Sampson, Rachel Sampson, and Rebecca Sampson. Charles died peacefully at home where he had been cared for by his loved ones. Burial will take place at Joshua Tree Memorial Park. Due to concerns regarding Covid-19, the family plans to hold a memorial service in the future at St, Dunstan’s Episcopal Church.