Hello, my name is Jessica Acheson, and I’ve created this on behalf of my Aunt and Uncle.
It breaks my heart to share that we lost our beautiful cousin, Samantha, on May 27th at 2:20 PM. For those who may not know, Sam was involved in a motor vehicle accident, and the injuries she sustained were simply too severe for her body to overcome.
As we prepare to honor Sam’s memory with a celebration of life, we are asking for help to cover the costs. If you are able and feel called to give, any donation—no matter the size—would mean the world to our family. Your generosity will help us give her the beautiful farewell she deserves.
We do not yet have a set date for her celebration of life, but fundraiser requires a date to be listed. Please know that we will update the page as soon as we have more details. Thank you for your understanding and support during this incredibly difficult time.
Shared from Aunt Kris:
Now for the hardest words I’ve ever had to write…
Our radiant, fierce princess warrior has taken her final breath. She fought so hard, but this final battle was too much for her body and mind to bear. Sam passed away at the Iowa City Hospital, where she had been flown for care. Our world shattered at that moment.
She was everything. Truly, there will never be another soul like hers. Her heart was pure gold. Her smile could light up a room, and her beauty—inside and out—was absolutely captivating. She radiated kindness, compassion, and love to everyone she met.
She loved deeply—her family, her friends, and especially her nephews, who were her entire world. Sam was selfless and wise beyond her years. Her vibrant spirit and infectious laugh will echo in our hearts forever. She wasn’t just a daughter; she was a best friend, a co-worker, a pool buddy… she was everything.
There are a million pictures I could share, but I don’t need to. She never took a bad one. I want you to remember Sam in your own way—by the way she touched your heart, by the joy she brought into your life.
To all the friends and family who have reached out with love and condolences, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Her father, her brother River Burke, her sister Bethany Brown, and all of us—feel your love and support.
Your fight is over now, beautiful princess. Rest peacefully.