Childplace Loses Ken Samuel, Founder and Longtime Director of Childplace
Ken Samuel, 72, founder and longtime director of Childplace (originally known as the South-Central Christian Children’s Home) in Jeffersonville, Indiana passed away January 21, 2011 following a seven year bout with dementia. Ken was born, and spent most of his childhood and adolescence, in rural Southwest Missouri. He graduated from Freed-Hardeman College, Henderson, TN, and Indiana University Southeast. In August 1957, he married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Triplett, and the two shared a wonderful marriage of more than 53 years. They made their home in Jeffersonville beginning in 1961, where Ken served Meigs Avenue Church of Christ (1961-1964) and Northside Church of Christ (1964-1971) as minister.
Additionally, Ken served as executive director and director of development for CHILDPLACE, a local, not-for-profit child and family services agency. His tenure at CHILDPLACE spanned more than 36 years. He was a charter member and elder of Northside Church of Christ.
Ken is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn; three sons, Landon, Nathan and James; two daughters-in-law, Sherry and Kim; eight grandchildren, Jessica, Brad, Ashley, Tyler, Justin, Alexis, Alex and Hannah; his father, O K Samuel; sister, Elaine Tucker; and two brothers, Bob and Steve Samuel, all of Rogersville, MO.
Ken was a Man of God. He loved his family and dedicated himself to the service of God and others. He enjoyed life, travelled extensively, was actively involved in his church, was a distinguished writer, gospel preacher and singer, and was especially devoted to ministering to the needs of at-risk children.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday, January 25 at Northside Church of Christ. Consistent with his life and his wishes, memorial gifts may be given to CHILDPLACE, 2420 E. 10th St., Jeffersonville, IN 47130, or you may donate online at www.childplace.org, where your generosity will continue his legacy of serving the needs of children.
Tags: Childplace, Ken Samuel