Word has been received of the death of William Samarin, who served as a missionary and translator in the Central African Republic. His obituary appears below.
WILLIAM J. SAMARIN, February 7, 1926 – January 16, 2020–With sadness we announce the death of Professor Emeritus William Samarin. The American-born scholar of socio-linguistics taught for many years at the University of Toronto. He was best known for his work on the language of religion and on two Central African languages: Sango and Gbeya. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruth; he is survived by his daughters, Manya (George) Egerton and Ramona (Per) Furst and their families; as well as extended family in California. A memorial service will be held at a later date.