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Pastor Scott Foster Sample, a devoted man of faith, loving husband, proud father, “Pop Pop,” and respected pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church, where he served for 20 years, peacefully entered eternal rest on Friday, May 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and the grace of God.
He was born on September 9, 1962, in Accomack County, to the late Obediah and Marian Sample. From the very beginning, Scott’s life was rooted in faith, family, and perseverance. He graduated from Central High School in 1979 and went on to build a life marked by dedication, resilience, and unwavering purpose.
In his early years, Scott served in the United States Army and later worked at Crockett and Son Seafood, where he developed a strong work ethic and determination that became a hallmark of his character. He was never afraid of hard work and believed deeply in providing for his family. That same drive led him to found C.L.A.S.S. Trucking, where he operated under the trucking tag name “Messenger Man,” a business through which he exemplified leadership, discipline, and entrepreneurial excellence.
At an early age, Scott accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior, establishing a spiritual foundation that would serve as his anchor for decades to come. In the early 2000s, he rededicated his life to Christ and faithfully answered the call to serve as pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Hacksneck, Virginia. Through his preaching, wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith, he touched countless lives. He furthered his theological education by earning an Associate in Biblical Studies from North Carolina College of Theology, as well as both a Bachelor and Master of Theology from North Carolina Bible Institute, deepening his commitment to the work of God with every degree.
Pastor Scott was a submitted pastor in Elisha’s House Fellowship, headquartered in Toledo, Ohio. He joined the fellowship in 2022, serving under the leadership of Bishop Brehon Hall. He also faithfully served as a pastor in Global United Fellowship under the leadership of Presiding Prelate Bishop Joel Peebles and Founder Bishop Neil Ellis. Deeply invested in his local region, he and his congregation were active members of the Eastern Virginia and Maryland Baptist Association. Pastor Scott was a mainstay of the Association, providing unwavering support for its missions and everything occurring within the fellowship. Through his commitment to ministry, fellowship, and service, he remained dedicated to the work of the Kingdom and the advancement of the Gospel.
Scott was blessed in love and marriage. He married Lasonya on June 19, 2021, and together they built a home rooted in love and devotion. She cared for him faithfully and stood by his side to the very end.
Beyond the pulpit and the open road, Scott was a man who embraced life in its fullness. He carried a quiet love for fishing, drawn to the stillness of the water and the peace it promised, though life’s demands often kept him from enjoying it as he desired. Yet even in that, it remained a simple dream he held close. He was also a passionate admirer of antique and high-performance cars, finding joy at the race track among the roar of engines and the beauty of finely crafted machines. In these moments, his spirit was evident. A man grounded in faith, yet deeply appreciative of life, laughter, and the quiet blessings God placed along his path.
Scott will be remembered as a man of strength, wisdom, and unwavering faith. He was a provider, protector, and a powerful example of godly manhood. He loved deeply, led faithfully, and lived with purpose.
He leaves to cherish his precious memory: his loving wife, Lasonya Malone Sample; his children, Lamont Beckett, Sharnetta (Vandell) Taylor, Setina (Stephen) Anthony, Norman (Janiya) Malone, and Laniya Malone; four grandchildren, Aiyana, Ariyah, Norman Jr., and Noah; his siblings, Darrell Sample, Donna Sample Smith, and Greta Sample; two brothers-in-law, James Beckett and Noris Malone; his godson, MJ; along with a host of beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends.
Though his earthly journey has ended, the legacy of Pastor Scott Foster Sample, his faith, love, leadership, and devotion will live on in all who were blessed to know him.
"Well done, good and faithful servant..." – Matthew 25:23
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