Background
Sams, John Roland was born on November 1, 1922 in Whatcheer, Iowa, United States. Son of Bert Willian and and Vesta Leora (Wilkins) Sams.
Sams, John Roland was born on November 1, 1922 in Whatcheer, Iowa, United States. Son of Bert Willian and and Vesta Leora (Wilkins) Sams.
Bachelor of Science, Iowa State University, 1949. Master of Arts, Drake University, 1952. Student, Hartford Seminary, 1954.
Master of Arts, Chapman College, 1972. HHD (honorary), Philippine Christian University, Manila.
Teacher, Paullina (Iowa) Public Schools, 1949-1951; missionary, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Thailand, 1954-1967; missionary, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Philippines, 1968-1971; vice president, American Leprosy Missions, New York City, 1972-1976; executive vice president, American Leprosy Missions, Bloomfield, New Jersey, 1976-1984; president, American Leprosy Missions, Elmwood Park, New Jersey, 1984-1989.
Served with United States Army Air Force, 1942-1946.
Married Frances Elizabeth McCluney, July 3, 1924. Children: Phyllis Jean, Georgia Ann, Bert Franklin.