NEW BEDFORD - Longtime New Bedford resident Winifred L. Sampson died Tuesday, September 9th, 2025. She was 96 years old.

Winifred was one of 6 children born to Edward Skinner Chace and Nellie Hughes. Her siblings, Eva, Thelma, David, Edward, and Richard, were an important part of her life, in person and then in stories fondly told upon their passing. She married William L. Sampson Jr. in 1952. Together they raised their four children and two grandchildren.

Winnie was a cook and a wonderful baker. She hosted a weekly Sunday dinner, complete with freshly baked buns, for over 50 years. She and Bill spent many happy summers at their campground in New Hampshire, where Winnie made all of the pies for pie eating contests. She took pride in maintaining a spotless house where a fresh cup of coffee and homemade sweets were always available to any who stopped by.

She was a fan of games and always up for a round of Rummy or Cribbage. She enjoyed outings with the "So and So's", puzzle-making, and taking vacations each summer with her children. She was always a passenger as her husband drove and road trips with her took longer than they needed to, as she demanded a stop in order to read EVERY road side sign.

Grandchildren and great-grandchildren were an important part of Winifred's life. She was a caregiver to each of them and many consider her a true friend.

Winnie was sharp witted and sharp tongued and was not afraid to speak her mind. She appreciated honesty and did not have time for much else.

She is survived by four children, Kathleen of Westport, Richard of New Bedford, Sean of Portland, ME and Jocelyn of Topsfield; her daughter in-laws Carol and Cheryl; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; cousins and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by two sons, William and Edward.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 1:00 PM. Please contact dsurp@hotmail.com for details.