Samantha’s Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Samantha Griner, a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, who departed from this world on November 22, 2023. Samantha’s life, though tragically short, left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her.
Born on April 21, 2002, Samantha brought joy and warmth to the lives of her family from the moment she entered the world. With her infectious laughter and radiant smile, she had a unique ability to brighten even the darkest of days. Samantha was a compassionate soul who cared deeply for others, always offering a helping hand and a listening ear to those in need.
Samantha was known for her unwavering kindness and empathy. She possessed an innate ability to connect with people on a profound level, making everyone feel seen and valued. Her genuine nature and ability to find beauty in the simplest of things will forever be remembered.
Samantha attended Winter Haven High School where she was the recipient of several awards including WHHS National Honor Society, WHHS Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, Superintendent’s Scholar Awards, and WHHS Diploma – AICE Diploma with Merit. She then furthered her education at Flagler College in St. Augustine earning the Flagler Presidential Merit Scholarship, Flagler On-Campus Housing Grant, Florida EASE Grant, Florida Medallion Scholarship, 2020 Fall Dean’s List, 2021 Spring and Fall Dean’s List, and 2022 Spring Dean’s List. She was passionate about her work at the Florida Department of Children and Families Legal Services.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoyed documentaries, shopping and browsing thrift stores and antique stores, vintage clothing, spending time with her family and friends, anime, ethnic equality, watching soccer, collecting crystals and squishmellows, the beach, being in nature, and traveling.
Samantha’s memory will be forever cherished by her loving parents, Jodi and Chuck Griner (Dawn Farmer), and her adoring siblings, Randi Dean (Brentley) and Tyler Griner (AJ Calhoun), nieces Ameilia Griner, and Brooklyn Calhoun, nephew JC Calhoun, grandparents Ann Boyd (James), Dennis Brown, and Barbara Griner, and uncles John Boyd (Crystal Cole), Donovan Brown, and Barney Griner Jr. (Jeanette). She will also be deeply missed by her extended family and countless friends who had the privilege of sharing in her life’s journey. Samantha was preceded in death by her great grandmother Estelle Crawford and her husband John Crawford as well as her grandfather, Barney Griner Sr.
While Samantha’s departure leaves an immense void in our lives, we take solace in the knowledge that her spirit will live on in the memories we hold dear. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the vibrant and beautiful life she lived, and may her legacy inspire us to live each day with the same love, compassion, and zest for life that she exemplified.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home, Winter Haven, Florida to honor Samantha’s life and to provide support to one another during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Toys for Tots, a cause close to Samantha’s heart.
Samantha, you brought light and love to our lives, and your memory will forever be etched in our hearts. May you rest in eternal peace, knowing the profound impact you made on all those fortunate enough to have known you.
A memory box is a beautiful way to honor the memory of a loved one. It provides a space for people to write heartfelt messages and share cherished memories with the family. Each note or item placed inside the box becomes a precious keepsake that brings comfort and solace. As time passes, the family can revisit the memory box, finding solace in the words and mementos shared by friends and family, and keeping the memory of Sam alive in their hearts. It serves as a tangible reminder of the impact Sam had on others and the enduring love and support surrounding her.
