Mary Aquilla Winston Sampson, 90, was born on October 4, 1935, in Davidson County, North Carolina, to the late James Winston and Troy Holmes Winston. On Friday morning, July 10, 2026, while at Autumn Care of Salisbury, she peacefully exchanged time for eternal life.

Mrs. Sampson was a faithful member of First Baptist Church, Southmont, where she faithfully served as the Mother of the Church. She had a wonderful sense of style and was admired for her love of fashion, beautiful hats, elegant jewelry, flowers, and the color purple, which she wore with grace and joy.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two daughters, Faye A. Crawford and Davera Lynn Winston; four brothers, James Winston, Edward Winston, Leroy Winston, and Andrew Winston; and four sisters, Julia Hargrave, Ola Winston, Sarah M. Burnside, and Alfreda W. Jones.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory two grandchildren, Brian Grimes (Felicia) and Carla D. Jones (Terence); five great-grandchildren; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.