Samantha Kelly Meyer - Wisconsin Into Light Exhibit

Samantha Kelly Meyer

Friendly, loving, spunky, caring, adventurous

Samantha was a bright, energetic, and loving soul whose presence lit up every room she entered. Known for her spunky personality and infectious happiness, she had a remarkable gift for making anyone around her smile or laugh. Born with one blonde eyebrow and one brown—and the same contrast in her eyelashes—Samantha embraced her uniqueness, allowing her to make friends with anyone, anywhere. 

Samantha found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved the beach, socializing, and babysitting. She also adored white owls and had a lighthearted obsession with tomatoes!  

Samantha cherished her role as a mother to her son, Dalton Blake Meyer, now 14. He was truly her life. The loving bond they shared was unmistakable. Some of their happiest moments were spent side by side playing video games on their phones, laughing and creating memories. Samantha poured her heart into motherhood and eagerly looked forward to watching Dalton “grow into a fine young man,” her mother Tina shared.

Samantha also shared a profound and loving bond with her father, Michael, whom she admired. He was her protector throughout her early life, and even as an adult. He remained the first person she would call if she needed anything. They shared a special love of playing pool together, sharing moments that reflected both their closeness and mutual love.   

Samantha shared a close and loving relationship with her brother, Justin, and her three nephews, Hayden, Holden, and Hudson. She delighted in her playful rapport with Justin, affectionately calling him her “big/little brother,” since he was much taller than she was. Her warmth, humor, and loving presence made her an irreplaceable part of their lives.

Tragically, Samantha’s life was cut short at the age of 27 due to fentanyl exposure. Though her time here was brief, her impact on those around her continues to resonate. Her family now advocates for awareness and caution regarding substance use, hoping to protect others from similar loss.

Samantha will always be remembered for her radiant smile, joyful spirit, and the deep, unwavering love she gave to her son, her family, and her friends.

Samantha’s mother, Tina Meyer, provided the information for this narrative.
August 27, 1992–July 20, 2020Age 27

Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel 
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois 

Share this story from The INTO LIGHT Project

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

More Into Light Stories

Read more biographies from this exhibit.
Devin Hart Bearden

Devin Hart Bearden

Caring, athletic, bright, witty, attractive At 6’2”, Devin was lanky, handsome, and a natural athlete. Equally at home on a skateboard, snowboard, or when surfing, he was a pleasure to watch; so fluid and graceful. He was a good soccer and baseball player and loved hiking in nature or being at the beach, especially on the annual family beach trips to Hatteras in North Carolina.
Read More »
Ethan Augsburger - Wisconsin Into Light Exhibit

Ethan Augsburger

Loyal, laid back, smart outdoorsman Ethan, the easy-going, intelligent man loved by many, belonged by the water. As a kid living on Lake Butte des Morts, a passion for fishing developed at an early age. He was graced with a photographic memory. Demonstrating ample dedication as an angler, he won fishing contests in the Fox Valley area, and it became clear that a future in environmental protection and resources was on the horizon. Generous, loyal, caring, and smart, he stood up for those who needed it and maintained lifelong friends. His younger brother Evan was close kin, as was his best friend Mike and his partner Samantha.
Read More »
Adrianna Awes - Wisconsin Into Light Exhibit

Adrianna Awes

Bubbly, warm, unforgettable best friend With a smile that lit up the room and irresistible, infectious laughter, Adri Awes was pure love in human form. Encouraging and welcoming, she befriended those around her with ease, coaxing out the best traits in them. The song of her soul often emerged on car rides with her best friend Angela or on nights full of live music, showing off her good energy and fun-loving spirit. Though busy from day to day, Adri prioritized quality time with those most important to her, whether it was on holidays, birthdays, or for a meal and catch-up chat. Angela’s children, Lilah and Oliver, became two of Adri’s favorite people, and she was overjoyed to become Lilah’s godmother. Adri’s sister Marina, her brother Aris, her parents, and her Pappou formed her closest bonds, along with chosen family in the form of friends and workmates.
Read More »
Robert J. Barajas - Wisconsin Into Light Exhibit

Robert J. Barajas

Loving, energetic, creative, protective prankster Bobby Barajas, remembered for his loving, kind, and humorous nature, was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need. A sensitive heart coupled with a lively spirit made him a caring and compassionate friend, brother, and father. His passions included making everyone laugh, Milwaukee sports teams, carpentry, and most of all, his daughter Aneia. His siblings Mark and Natalia, as well as his mother Erica, recall Bobby being the life of the party, always at the center of the celebration, making lasting memories with his laughter and love.
Read More »

Bring an Exhibit to Your State