Samantha L. Payne

November 2, 1984 - August 3, 2020

On Monday, August 3rd, 2020, Samantha L. Payne ended her 10 year battle with cancer. Samantha’s fight was long and courageous. Her family and friends often described her as the “strongest women” they know. Despite Samantha’s taxing fight with cancer, she spent her life caring for others. A Lifelong resident of Portage, IN and a graduate of Portage High School, Samantha spent her Post Education career in the health care industry and served as a Dialysis Technician at Duneland Dialysis for the past 11 years. Samantha spent her early years working as a CNA, a Preschool instructor, Youth Camp Councilor, and was an employee for the Boys and Girls Club’s of America where she mentored and impacted dozens of kids throughout the community. Even as Samantha’s health declined she supported other terminally ill cancer patients through a survivors program and frequently donated to the Senior Dogs Rescue. Samantha survived by her Father: Jimmy Payne, Brother: Paul Payne (Meaghan Payne), Sister: Kimberly Payne (Topher Blaschke) her 7 nieces and nephews: Alizay Payne, Sailor Payne, Reagan Payne, Caia Blaschke, Revis Blaschke, Lenora Blaschke, Silas Blaschke, and the love and support of her friends and work family. She is preceded in death by her Mother: Cheryl Payne, Grandparent’s: Marion and Lenora Bennett, Grandparent’s Mann and Bonnie Payne, and her beloved dog’s: Chewie and Oscar. Samantha wished for a Celebration of Life ceremony that will be held in October 2020. Dates will be set and communicated by the family. Samantha was a dedicated Aunt, loving Sister, devoted daughter, and a lover of simple things such as a good book, warm cup of tea, and a cozy blanket. While her body is at rest, her spirit and humor remain in our hearts.