Samuel Leroy Brister, a veteran of the Vietnam War and resident of Durant, Okla. joined his Savior on Dec. 13, 2019 at the age of 72. He was born in Banty, Okla. on March 7, 1947 to James Walter Brister and Madell (Bell) Brister. Samuel married Judie Cogburn in Sherman, Texas on Dec. 5, 1974.
Samuel proudly served his country during the Vietnam War earning the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his bravery and courage. He was a lifetime member of the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) and VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars). Samuel cherished his beloved family, he gladly dedicated his life to be the best husband, father and grandfather he could be. He enjoyed a quiet day with his fishing pole in his hand and singing praise and worship at his home church the Victory Tabernacle.
Mr. Brister is survived by his beloved wife Judie Gene of the home; children, Brianna Sherman of the home, Joye Brister of Ada, Okla., Rosie Brister of Mesa, Ariz., Walter Brister of Durant, Okla., and Abbiegail Coleman and husband Bruce of Durant, Okla.; grandchildren, Shannan Long and Shaylin Long of the home, Brandynn Coleman, Naythan Coleman, and James Ryan Coleman all of Durant, Okla.; siblings, WJ Brister of Durant, Okla., Patsy Yandell, Jerry Brister of Durant, Okla., James Brister and wife Kathy; and also survived by nephews, James and Ray Brister and Kenny Dale Brister and nieces, Cheryl Austin and Amy Black.
Mr. Brister was preceded in death by his parents, son, Samuel Brister, stepfather, Kenneth Blankenship, grandparents, LeRoy and Rosie Bell and Samuel and Elizabeth Brister.
A celebration of his life was held Wednesday, Dec. 18 with Pastor Jesse West officiating. His final resting place will be the Highland Cemetery in Durant, Oklahoma.
Services are under the direction of Holmes~Coffey~Murray Funeral Home in Durant. www.holmescoffeymurray.com