Samantha D. Lee

Samantha D. Lee - Our sweet precious Samantha (Sammie) Dana Lee, 13, passed away suddenly on Thursday, June 20, 2013 after years of suffering with intractable seizures. Born in Teaneck, NJ on June 8, 2000, she was a lifelong resident of North Caldwell, NJ. Sammie developed seizures at 18 months and was later diagnosed with a rare form of epilepsy when she was 5 years old. She continued a child-like innocence and mentality throughout her short life. Never one to complain, Sammie suffered through years of failed agonizing medical treatments with just a whimper then returning to her smiling self. Having endured many setbacks that were attributed to her disease, Sammie was determined to be happy and maintained a sunny outlook. Despite these challenges, Sammie continued to live a fulfilling life traveling and attending her sibling's sporting events and activities. Sammie was their biggest fan with the brightest smile and the loudest cheer. Early in life, Sammie was an avid doodler; later maturing into magazine browsing and she loved a good book (especially one with pictures). Always smiling, she often went into laughing fits after watching her favorite cartoons, namely Arthur, Clifford and Sponge Bob. Sammie loved to play outside from swinging a bat to throwing a basketabll with her sister. She especially loved the gentle yet hard pushes from her brother on the swing always wanting to go higher. Sammie attended PG Chambers, a special need school in Cedar Knolls, NJ where she flourished and made many friends that would become her second family. Sammie is survived by her parents, Pui & Stephen Lee; her older brother Brennan and older sister Stephanie. Sammie is known for her large infectious smile, high fives and big bear hugs. She taught us many lessons of unconditional love, strength and determination all while maintaining a brave face. Sammie leaves a hole in our hearts both deep and wide. But we know that her lifetime of suffering has ended and she's finally at peace with her paternal grandmother. Friends will be received Saturday, June 29 from 10AM-3PM at Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, 7 Two Bridges Road, Fairfield. A private cremation will be held on Monday, July 1.