Samuel Ray Belk

On July 21st 2016, Samuel Ray Belk finally got his driver’s license back and went to the greatest fishing hole of his life. Sam was born in Union County, North Carolina, on June 21, 1933, to sharecroppers Carl Albert Belk and Decie Minnie Belk.

He learned to work hard and enjoy the simple things of life in the cotton fields and woods of the south. At age 20 he joined the army and served for five years on a special research project in Idaho. It was during this time that he met his beautiful, blue-eyed sweetheart, JoAnne Millward. They were married on June 16, 1956. Sam was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He taught biology for 10 years at Snake River High near Blackfoot, ID, and he farmed and raised cows on his farm near Pingree, Idaho. He loved fishing and hunting with his sons and anyone else who showed an interest, even a few who didn’t (like his daughters!) He was a good friend and liked everyone he got a chance to know. He believed in helping his neighbors, working hard, and being honest.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Winfred Belk, and sisters, Vetra Cook, and Verna Mae Taylor. He is survived by his wife JoAnne Belk, one brother, LA Belk and one sister, Carolyn Hinson. His greatest passion and contribution was his family. He is survived by his children, Sheila Bingham (Marvin), Val Belk (Loralee), Mark Belk (Laura), Marla Emch (Gary), Flint Belk (Ann), Shandell Hinckley (Troy), and Jana Lund (Bruce) He blessed the lives of 41 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren (so far) with an outstanding heritage and wonderful memories.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday July 30, 2016 at the LDS Chapel in Pingree, Idaho. A viewing will be on Friday from 7-9pm at ManningWheatley Funeral Chapel (510 N. 12th Ave.) and on Saturday one hour prior to services at the church. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens with Military Rites provided by the Pocatello Veterans Honor Guard