Samantha Ariah Mays

Following an inspiring and hard-fought battle with cancer, Samantha Ariah Mays passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on September 30, 2022. Sam was born on March 12, 1997, in Macomb, Illinois. Through the years, she was a bright light in this world with her contagious laugh, sense of humor, and passion for helping others. Sam, especially loved animals and children, and she cared deeply for her family and friends. Sam is survived by her parents, Sandra and Danny Mays; sister, Kami Combs (Tommy); grandmother, Diana Mays; aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and cousins. She lived in Dinwiddie, Virginia with her cousin/best friend Kirstyn Hall; fiancé, Adam Barker; and fur children, Dolly and Chief. She was preceded in death by her brother, Luke Johnson (Lyndie), as well as two grandparents, an uncle, and an aunt. After graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University with a bachelor’s degree in business marketing, Sam worked as a marketing assistant for Boyd Homes. When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed singing, crafting, dancing, traveling, and anything related to makeup/fashion. Sam’s latest aspiration was to become a motivational speaker. Visitation will be held at Nelsen Funeral Home (4650 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA) on Saturday, October 8, at 2:30 p.m. A celebration of life will follow at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, guests can make a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, helping the homeless, or an animal shelter of their choice.