Mark Duran Samuels was a true muckraker, a passionate journalist who owned newspapers, published newspaper, edited newspapers, wrote opinions for newspapers and sold advertising for newspapers.
His work took him across the United States and once to Cuba with the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Paul’s request. Mark died June 4, 2026 and was laid to rest in a private service on June 12, 2026.
Mark earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Southern Illinois University, his Master’s from University of Illinois, and attended one year at the Simmons Law School at Carbondale.
A good bourbon, an interesting book, an early morning tee time, and a flat billiards table with responsive cushions made Mark a happy man.
He could sight read music at an early age; sang Tenor and later Baritone. He played guitar and probably bought, swapped, and played more trumpets than Maynard Ferguson!
Several close relatives preceded Mark in death including his Mother, Lois (Bryant Samuels) Jenkins and Elmer Jenkins of Benton. Maternal grandparents John and Anita Bryant of West Frankfort, Paternal grandparents Wayne “Teenie” and Nellie Samuels of Benton, and Wayne Richard Samuels of Benton.
Mark has a sister who loved him very much; Lyndy Girten and husband Donnie Girten of Benton, his nephew Codey Girten and wife Jacqueline who live in California with their daughter Cynthia, and he spent time together in the last weeks of his life with his nephew, Trevor Girten of Benton talking about their shared interest in billiards and reading. Mark bought Trevor his first trumpet.
I hope he felt it clearly, how deeply he was loved, even after goodbye.
Mark shared the same love and kindness toward animals that his Mother did. After his death, his faithful fury cat, Baby Love Mona Lisa, was adopted by a family friend who was grateful to have her.
If you feel so moved, Franklin County Animal Control is always in need of donations for their fur babies! It would be a blessing for the animals and a way to honor Mark. Donations can be made to the Franklin County Animal Shelter ,13163 Oddfellows Lane, Benton, IL 62812, 618-438-9197
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com
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