Samuel B. Burr, 65, of Lomax, died June 11, 2025, at home after a long and difficult battle with cancer. If you knew him, 65 was likely 36 years longer than you thought he would live, and for that his children are thankful.
Sam was born October 4, 1959, in LaHarpe, Ill. to LaVerne and Mary Hamm Burr. He married Susan Barnes in Dallas City,, Ill. Susan and Sam later divorced.
Sam was raised in Disco and lived for many years in LaHarpe. A constant traveller of the US, he worked for the BNSF railroad, and subsequently the Boilermakers Union. He had a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and freedom of nature. A deep respect for the land drove him to become an expert arrowhead hunter, his favorite pastime. He had exceptional taste in classic rock, a love of fast cars, and a fascination with old Westerns.
He is survived by his son, Lucas Burr of Grandview, MO; his daughters, Kelli (Kevin) O’Hara of Portland, Ore., and Abby (Andrew) Ball, of Louisburg, Kan.; and one grandchild, Merrick Ball. He is also survived by three sisters, Sharon Reed and Beth Todd, both of Terre Haute, Ill., and Rose Lorenzen of Salem, Iowa; and one brother, Rodney Burr of Terre Haute, Ill.
Sam was preceded in death by one son, Ryan McPeak; one infant grandchild, Ezra Burr; both parents; two brothers; and one sister.
The family would like to extend special appreciation to Lora and Mike Gittings and the Mowen family for their generous care and compassion.
Banks & Beals Funeral Home is assisting the family.
A graveside service will be held at the Durham, Illinois Cemetery at a later date. A memorial fund has been established in his memory. Contributions may be mailed to; Samuel Burr Memorial Fund, c/o Banks & Beals Funeral Home, PO Box 503, LaHarpe, IL 61450.