Samantha Valentine, 26, of Clifford, PA, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026. Born on May 6, 1999, in Hershey, PA, Samantha lived a life defined by resilience, joy, and an unshakable spirit.

A proud graduate of Mountain View JR/SR High School in Kingsley, PA, Samantha was affectionately known as “The Mayor” among her classmates and teachers. Her warm personality and infectious energy made her a beloved presence in the halls—always ready with a smile and a hug for everyone she met.

From the very beginning of her life, Samantha faced challenges that would have daunted many. Born with Spina Bifida and told she might never walk, she defied every expectation. Not only did she walk—she ran, jumped, and soared through life with determination and grace. Her strength was quiet but powerful; she overcame every obstacle placed before her with courage that inspired all who knew her.

Samantha found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished time spent with her family—especially her nieces and nephews: Tristan, Piper, Wynter, and John Valentine—who brought light to her days and whom she adored deeply. Whether cheering on her favorite teams during football Sundays at Cindy’s and Chuckie’s or scratching off lottery tickets with hopeful excitement, Samantha embraced each moment fully. She also had a lifelong love for professional wrestling—a passion that reflected her own fighting spirit. Samantha adroed her dog Nugget, who was her faithful companion.

She is lovingly remembered by her mother, Christine Valentine; her brother, John Valentine and his wife, Kori Morrison; her aunt, Anna Forbes Battle; her uncle and aunt, Joe and Lisa Valentine; and her uncle and aunt, Paul and Patti Forbes as well as the nieces and nephews who meant the world to her: Tristan, Piper, Wynter, and John Valentine.

Samantha now joins those who went before her: her father, John Valentine; sister, Brittany Valentine; cousin, Joey Valentine; maternal grandparents, Paul and Eleanor Forbes; paternal grandparents, John and Frances Valentine and her aunt, Brenda Napierkowski.

The funeral was held Friday, February 13, 2026 from the Shifler-Parise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 18 Airport Road, Clifford, PA, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Pius X Church, 315 State Route 106, Royal, PA, concelebrated by Rev. August A. Ricciardi, pastor, and Rev. Michael Kirwin, former pastor. Interment, Our Mother of Sorrows Cemetery, Greenfield Township, PA.

Pallbearers: John Valentine, Joseph Valentine, Chuckie Black, Emil Pawelzik, Rachel Battle and Patrick Battle.

A viewing was held Thursday, February 12, 2026 from 4-6 p.m.

Though Samantha’s time with us was far too short, the impact she made will be felt forever. Her memory will continue to inspire strength in those who knew her—and remind us all of what it means to live fully despite adversity.

Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family on the funeral home’s website or Facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, donations were made in Samantha's name to Laura's Hope Rescue, Hop Bottom, PA.