Sammy William Dunlap, 92, of Portia, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Walnut Ridge Nursing and Rehab Center. He was born May 6, 1933, in Clover Bend to the late James Richard and Martha Katherine (Coats) Dunlap. On December 12, 1953, Sammy married the love of his life, Wanda Smith. The two shared a devoted life together in Portia throughout their 71 years of marriage. Sammy was a longtime salesman for John Deere, where he worked faithfully for 47 years. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years. He was a long-time attendant of the Faith Worship Center in Portia. Sammy was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather. He especially enjoyed spending time on the golf course and created lasting memories with his loved ones and friends.
In addition to his parents, Sammy was preceded in death by his siblings: Lucille Fears, Johnnie Dunlap, James Dunlap, Burdean Dunlap, Billy Dunlap, Melba Palmer, Rosalene Dunlap, Mandy Dunlap, Ernest Dunlap, and Pearlene Dunlap.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda, of the home; his children: Terry Dunlap (Nona) of Meridian, Mississippi, Lesa Brewer (Johnny), and Pashia Ridge, both of Portia; his cherished grandchildren: Jeremy Dunlap (Angel), Shawn Dunlap (Lisa), Casey Dunlap, Shay Brewer (Cynthia), Blythe Sloan (Jeremiah), and Cager Ridge (Angel); 13 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; as well as many special nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Visitation will be on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge with funeral services to immediately follow at 1 p.m. Steve Alexander and Jimmy Dunlap will officiate. Interment will follow in the Crossroads Cemetery in Portia under the direction of Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge.
Honored to serve as pallbearers are Shay Brewer, Jeremy Dunlap, Casey Dunlap, Skip Dulaney, Eric Dry, and Brayden Brewer.