calsfoundation@cals.org
December 23, 1981
Sam Kountz, who was born in Lexa (Phillips County) and overcame the disadvantages of being born black in the segregated Delta region of the state to become a highly successful renal surgeon and professor, died at his home in Kings Point, New York. Kountz, who failed the entrance examination to Arkansas Agricultural and Mechanical College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) but was nevertheless admitted because of his earnestness and determination, became a pioneer in renal transplantation.