Samantha Irene "Sam" Wood

Samantha Irene "Sam" Wood passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on May 13, 2025. She was born on February 1, 1988, in Leonardtown, MD. Samantha is the beloved daughter of Bobby and Patty Wood and the devoted mother to Caleb Dittman. She is survived by her siblings: Amanda Wathen (Steve), Lauren Wood (Daniel), and Rob Wood (Jordan). Samantha was born and raised in St. Mary's County. In 2006, she moved to Wills Point, Texas, but after two years, homesickness brought her back to Maryland. She later moved to Gillette, Wyoming, in 2017, where she made many dear friends. In 2024, Samantha returned home to Abell, Maryland. Despite facing significant health challenges from a young age, she never allowed her condition to define her. Samantha chose to focus on creating beautiful memories. Those who knew her often describe her as a beacon of hope, someone who taught them the value of perseverance and the importance of cherishing each moment. When Caleb was born, her world shifted in a beautiful way. She immersed herself in motherhood with enthusiasm, finding joy in every moment spent with him. They loved to watch movies, go out for lunch, or shop together. She made every effort to ensure he felt loved and supported, even during her most challenging days. Samantha's home was a reflection of her soul, filled with knick-knacks and meaningful decor. Samantha's favorite pastime was spending time with her family and friends, especially her nieces and nephews, who referred to her as Aunt Kiki, whom she treated as her own. She also enjoyed reading and watching her favorite movie, *The Nightmare Before Christmas*, and brought touches of this classic into her life. In addition to her parents, son, and siblings, Samantha is survived by her grandmother, Barbara Ann Wood; her nieces: Molly Houseman, Raelyn Wathen, and Josie Wood; her nephews: Carter Hahn and Ryan Wood; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Delegate Johnny Wood, Mary Margaret Wood, Charles "Bob" Wood, and her aunt, Catherine "Cathy" Bailey. She will forever be remembered as a beautiful soul and the true definition of a warrior. The family will receive friends and loved ones on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 5–8 PM, with prayers recited at 7 PM at Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home in Leonardtown, MD. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Holy Angels Church in Avenue, MD. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Bushwood, MD. Serving as pallbearers: Danny Stone, David Wood, Kenny Wood, Hayden Wynkoop, Steven Bailey, and Owen Muir. Serving as honorary pallbearers: Her beloved nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Samantha's honor to the 7th District Rescue Squad and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.