Dr. John Thomas Samaras' Obituary
John T. Samaras, of Coppell, Texas, fell asleep in Christ on July 1, 2023. John was born September 27, 1929, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his mother, Marianthi V. Samaras, and his father, Athanasios J. Samaras. He leaves behind his wife of 62 years, Joanne Marianos Samaras; his son (Tom W. Samaras) and daughter-in-law (Debby Maxey Samaras); his daughter (Dr. Maria K. Samaras) and son-in-law (Michael T. Dominguez); and four grandchildren (Trent W. Samaras, Audrey E. Samaras, Ismael J. Dominguez, and Mateo F. Dominguez). Born in Oklahoma City to Greek immigrants, John was an only child but had numerous cousins with whom he grew up. He graduated from Classen High School in Oklahoma City and obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Oklahoma. John served in the U.S. Navy, and then the Naval Reserves for six years, during the Korean Conflict. Following active duty, John worked for his father in the grocery business. With support and encouragement from his wife, John pursued advanced degrees in Business Administration, and earned his master’s from Oklahoma City University and his doctorate from the University of Oklahoma. John enjoyed teaching at numerous institutions including the University of Central Oklahoma (previously Central State University) where he founded the Central State Business Review, serving as the journal’s editor. He also taught at the University of Oklahoma, Texas Woman’s University, University of North Texas, and Southern Methodist University. John also leaned on his writing interests and wrote case books on business principles. He was awarded tenure and Professor Emeritus from the University of Central Oklahoma.
Just as much as he loved being an American, John was also proud of his Greek heritage. His parents were among the founding families of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Oklahoma City. John was active in his faith through serving as an altar boy, playing baseball for the church team, being a member of the Order of Ahepa, participating in committees, and acting as chairperson for many Greek festivals.
John and Joanne served as godparents to several individuals and maintained close ties with their families over the years. John and Joanne adopted Tom and Maria and provided them with many opportunities including sports, music, scouts, dance, academics, and business. He loved his family and was selfless in his love and support of their dreams and ambitions. He was thrilled to become a grandfather to his four grandchildren and supported them in their interests, as well.
In addition to family, John enjoyed spending time with his friends discussing academics, business, travel, faith, and sports. John was an avid OU fan and loved supporting his Sooners.
John will be remembered for his work ethic, strong personality, dedication to education, pride of his heritage, and love for his family, relatives, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Dr. John T. Samaras’ name to the University of Central Oklahoma College of Business at www.centralconnection.org/donate (College of Business Annual Fund); or the University of Oklahoma Michael F. Price College of Business at www.ou.edu/price/connectgive.
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