Jen Samson

It is with profound sadness that the family of the late Jen Samson (née Leah Selma Genge; they/them) announce their tragic and accidental passing in Vancouver on Saturday December 28, 2024. In recent years, Leah suffered from severe mental illness - in many ways losing the person they once were, and could have been. Despite their strength and resilience, and the support of their family and loved ones, Leah’s life came to an untimely end at the young age of 30 as a result of their mental health struggles.

Leah is predeceased by their infant child Jo, their dear mother Janice Payne, grandparents Montrose and Bertha Genge of Flower's cove NL, and Gerald and Bertha Payne of Corner Brook, NL. Leaving to mourn devoted father Isaac (Valerie), young child Jayme, as well as their loving siblings Dawn Payne (Tyler), Charlotte Genge (John), Vincent Hannon, Nathan Genge, Sarah Hannon (John and Sarah), Luke Genge (Courtney), and Olivia Genge (Travis).

Leah adored and was adored by nieces and nephews Faith, Elsie, Greyson, Owen, and baby Isaac. Leah will also be mourned by step siblings and their children Scott (Katie and Kash), Janine (Jada and Elliott), and Josh (Lily and Jonah), and a large circle of extended family and friends, who loved Leah dearly.

Leah was a gifted mathematician and teacher, talents that were developed as a student and while tutoring children who struggled with math. Leah was one of few chosen to write the prestigious and world renowned Putnam math exam.

Leah brought this early experience to their teaching career in British Columbia. While devoting time to undergraduate studies and work, Leah enjoyed and often participated in improvisation and debate with their many friends. Leah had natural artistic skills and was self taught in speaking the Japanese language. As a teen, Leah was deeply involved with the local Anglican parish, and fostered a deep spiritual faith. Leah was selected to participate in a Rotary International Youth Exchange Program, travelling to Belgium and excelling as a leader among Rotary peers and being an exemplary bilingual student. Leah's successes and altruism resulted in being named a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship. After Leah completed their honours degree in mathematics at Memorial University of Newfoundland, they attended the University of British Columbia’s education faculty.

Leah was witty and fun loving, bringing light to the lives of all who knew them. Leah took great pride in their native heritage - researching, practicing, and incorporating it in life and with Jayme wherever possible. This loss is a great tragedy to all family and community involved.

A visitation and celebration of life service will be scheduled at a later date.