Sam Hoskins-former teacher and Principal at Oakdale School passes away, Sunday Nov. 4, 2007 A hero to the end - Former principal dies By Judy Underwood A hero to the end—Former principal dies Sam Hoskins’ life ended Sunday but the memory of his courage, heroism and wonderful sense of humor will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Hoskins dedicated his life to children in Morgan County with some 35 years as an educator. From 2001 to 2005 he served as principal of Oakdale School. “I just loved him,” said Morgan County Executive Becky Ruppe. Hoskins was Ruppe’s teacher while she was a student at Oakdale. Years later she represented the Oakdale community as a member of the Morgan County Board of Education while Hoskins was principal. “I could always count on him to tell me like it was and to make me laugh,” Ruppe said. She added that most of the really good stories weren’t suitable for publication. Hoskins followed former Superintendent of Schools Paul Scarbrough as principal at Oakdale and the two worked together for more than 30 years. “Sam was the most courageous individual I’ve ever known,” Scarbrough said. Hoskins was a decorated soldier who earned several Purple Hearts in VietNam. “He lost an eye and suffered terrible injuries to his arm but he never looked on the negative side and considered it an honor to have served his country,” Scarbrough said. He faced the diagnosis of cancer with bravery but also with the personality trait that served him well. “He always kept his sense of humor.” Anyone acquainted with Hoskins is well aware of his ability to make those around him laugh and to make children feel like they mattered because they did to him. “He was just a super nice guy, well liked and he really touched those children,” Scarbrough said. [Roane County News]