Samuel James Leemon

Sam Leemon died on January 4, 2026, at age 35, from chronic kidney disease. Sam was born in Washington, DC, and was raised in Kensington, MD. He attended several special education programs, including The Ivymount School in Rockville, MD. Sam was loved by his family, close family friends, and many devoted caregivers. Since 2022, Sam lived in a one-bedroom apartment operated by OurCare, Inc.

Sam had a severe form of autism. He spoke in short phrases and sentences. He could read and write. One of his favorite activities was writing words (such as the names of his favorite television news reporters and movie characters) with Mr. Sketch Scented Magic Markers using his distinctive penmanship. A lover of all things Star Trek, his favorite television episodes were Star Trek original series “Arena,” “Elaan of Troyius,”and “The City on the Edge of Forever.” He had a wardrobe filled with Star Trek shirts and pants. No one enjoyed swings more than Sam. He would dance and sing along to his favorite music, including Star Trek theme music, Disney movie music, and songs performed by Tina Turner, Michael Jackson, John Tesh, and Phil Collins. His family loved to hear him sing and watch him dance along with preferred music, especially to “My Sweet Lord” performed by Billy Preston. In recent years, he enjoyed going to the movies with his sister and brother-in-law, for walks and rides with his staff, and to Anthony’s NY Pizza and Pasta house in Bowie MD, as well as to Roy Rogers and McDonalds for lunch.

Sam is survived by his parents, Vicki and Mark Leemon of Kensington, MD and his sister Laura Leemon and brother-in-law, Scott Johnson, of Middle River, MD.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to The Ivymount School (ivymount.org).

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 1pm at the Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home, 11800 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20904.