Samantha Milton
“But while the earth sinks to its grave, you sail to the sky on the crest of a wave”
Date passed: 28 July 2020
Funeral date: 10 August 2020
Samantha was born in Barry on 3 May 1971, the only child of Sandra and David George. She attended school in Cardiff and subsequently studied Geography and Cartographic Science at Swansea University, graduating with honours in 1992.
Samantha met her husband and soulmate Dafydd in Aberystwyth in 1993. Soon after they met, he took a 12 month contract in the tropical heat of Townsville, Australia. Not to be deterred she took unpaid leave to join him and secured a short term job as a cartographer at the Department of Lands. When his job there was extended, she once again followed and worked in the Records section at James Cook University.
Since coming to Crewe in 2004, Samantha has worked in the planning department of Chester City Council and ended her working days too soon as local land charges team leader at Cheshire East Council.
Outside work, Samantha is an accomplished artist and has exhibited her artwork at the Three Counties Show at Keele.
A lover of the natural world, Samantha has been fortunate enough to travel the globe, from marvelling at the northern lights in the icy cold of the Arctic circle, to safari in the searing heat of the South African Savannah, from walking on glaciers in the towering Canadian Rocky Mountains to camping and hiking in the verdant Rainforests of tropical Australia. In these and in all points in between, she always held a keen interest in the local animals and plants.
Samantha would find her ultimate mindfulness propagating and tending for the many plants in her garden. She had a particular passion for Hellebores, bringing a splash of brightness through the gloomy winter days.
Samantha was the epitome of selflessness, always willing to help others. Throughout her all too short life, even during her final months and days, Samantha continued to put others before herself. It is a testament to these enduring qualities that given the countless numbers of people she would have touched throughout all of her working and social life, not one has ever had a bad word to say about her. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.
Above all Samantha was determined and never more so than in her desire to raise a family.She never gave up despite facing many obstacles and setbacks. Finally, after countless years of trying for children, Samantha was blessed with two beautiful boys Thomas, born May 2015 and Connor, born January 2019.
Sadly, Samantha was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May 2019. True to her way, she fought the disease long and hard, but this was one battle too many for her poor body. It is one of life’s cruellest fates that illness has denied her what she wanted most of all – the opportunity to experience her two wonderful boys grow into men.
Samantha passed peacefully on 28 July, looking out over her beloved garden.
Absolutely heartbroken Sam, we never got to do everything we planned, love you to bits and we’ll always be there for your boys and Daf, until we meet again, Donna, Justin & Nathan xxx
- Approved by oconnellSam, I met you in Townsville at James Cook University. I have fond memories of a weekend on Magnetic Island with Jodie. Fly high beautiful xx
- Approved by oconnellSam you have touched so many peoples lives and have left everyone all the better for it. Your kindness, selflessness and generosity shone through everyday. Even whilst battling so hard to beat this, you still continued to find time to help others.
- Approved by oconnellThe world has lost a truly remarkable lady and we have lost an amazing friend.
I am eternally grateful for all you did, your memory will always live on with us forever.
So rest easy Sam, shine down and continue to guide your beautiful boys and Dafydd from up high. Xx
Sam, you were the best boss I ever had. My best working years were with you and Cheryl in the records section at JCU. I think about you often as we still drive the Xtrail car we bought off you when you went back to the UK. You are a beautiful soul. I always remember how much you absolutely loved Christmas. You will always be remembered.
- Approved by oconnellSamantha, a wonderful person who will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her
- Approved by oconnellSam you have been taken too early. I remember all our morning teas together at James Cook Uni. You will he sadly missed even though we were a long way apart.
- Approved by oconnellSam, we will always remember our trips together when you and Daf lived in Townsville. Magnetic Island with Joanne, Mick, Robyn, Neil and Co., Paluma Dam and it poured the whole trip, and Kirrama at the research hut where you fell asleep during our after dinner conversation. Love to Daf and the boys. Xoxo
- Approved by oconnellDear Sam, heaven will be a better place with having you there, even though it is sooner than we would have wanted. Our lives have all been honoured to have you in it. I have fond memories of you whilst working alongside you @ Cheshire East Council. Sending my condolences to your family, with love from Tricia Kelleher x
- Approved by oconnellDafydd, I’m very sorry to hear of the untimely passing of your wife. Way way too young! please accept my condolences; my best wishes for the challenging time ahead .regards Joe Millard
- Approved by oconnellSam, you are a beautiful sole who has been taken far too soon. We also have special memories of our times together, along with Jodie, Gordon, Joanne, Mick and others in Townsville and at JCU. Neil and I loved catching up with you and Daf when we visited the UK in 2004 and also 2018, when we were lucky and priviliged to spend time with you, Daf and Thomas. You were a beautiful Mum who loved her boys so much. You will be sadly missed. Love always
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd. I was so shocked to hear the sad news of Samantha’s death. I have such fond memories of the happy times I spent with her. I will always remember Sam as a lovely warm person and a kind and considerate friend. My thoughts are with you, Thomas and Connor. With heartfelt sympathy. Paula
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd. what a shock when I read your email to me about Samantha passing away, I am so sorry. She was a lovely lady in looks and ways and there was always a smile when we were working together at the Council. What a lovely Mum and wife. She will be sadly missed. May she rest in peace, and love to you, Thomas and Connor. Angela xxx
- Approved by oconnellSam will always be remembered with fondness. My thoughts are with those most special to her at this time.
- Approved by oconnellSam you were taken far too early… It still hasn’t quite sunk in.
- Approved by oconnellI will miss our chats about Thomas, Connor and Chloe comparing stories.
You were such a thoughtful person who always put others first.
I will miss you x x
Thoughts are with Dafydd and the boys x
Dayfydd, we are so sorry to hear this awful news, and are sending you our most sincerest condolences, and wishing you happier times ahead.
- Approved by oconnellThe Laboratory team at CRL.
Sam, when we stayed up to watch the sun rise over Swansea bay in our last few days in Mumbles, we know adventures awaited. I am so glad we remained friends over the years. I have only the fondest memories, everything I know about rugby I know from watching it on TV with you, the lovely map you produced of Cardiff Park with a million electroset trees which you have surveyed with your Dad over the holiday for your final project. I shall miss your Christmas letters with all your news.
- Approved by oconnellI am so sad that your lovely boys will not have you to share your fun with growing up.
God bless you and keep you safe.
Rebecca x
Very sad news. A wonderful person and colleague. My sincere condolences to Sams family.
- Approved by oconnellIt has been my absolute privilege to have known and worked with Sam. She was a wonderful colleague and leader and a kind and generous friend who never forgot our birthdays and there was always Christmas and Easter treats for her Land Charges team at Cheshire East Council. We will miss her very much. Her legacy and achievements will live on. Thinking of you Dafydd, Thomas and Connor.
- Approved by oconnellWendy x
I only knew Sam briefly and only as part of my job at Cheshire East. From the times spent with her it was clear she was totally dedicated to her profession and excellent at her job. Always willing to offer friendly advice, pointing out sympathetically any mistakes made she had uncovered. I can only begin to imagine the pain and heartache experienced by her husband at losing such a wonderful, strong and dedicated Wife and Mother and my heartfelt condolences go out to Dafydd, Thomas and Connor.
- Approved by oconnellSam, you will be missed by all who had the honour of meeting you.
Gary.
I worked with Sam in Land Charges for 5 short years – she was a truly lovely person, generous in spirit and with her time, never forgot our birthdays, even this year when she was so so poorly.
- Approved by oconnellShe was genuinely concerned for our welfare always telling me that ‘people matter’ and I am deeply saddened to be writing this. I will miss her.
My sincere condolences to Sam’s family
Helen x
We have known Sam for the past 13 years – she was funny and was always there for her friends and colleagues. You will always be with us Sam wherever you may be. Sincere condolences Daf, Thomas and Connor.
- Approved by oconnellMy heart is heavy reading about your passing Sam, you were a beautiful sole inside and out. We had the pleasure of meeting you and Dafydd when you moved to Townsville and started working a Dept of Lands. We had many lovely dinner parties at your home, fond memories of a Halloween party, camping at Broadwater national park and how excited you would get Christmas shopping. I will never forget yours and Dafydd wonderful hospitality when I visited you in Crewe in 2008. You were taken way too soon, fly high with the angels Sam, we will miss you very much. Deepest condolences to Dafydd, Thomas, Connor and their family xxx love Always Elise and Bill Sales
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd
- Approved by oconnellI am so sorry to hear this terribly sad news. My thoughts and prayers go to Samantha’s family, you, her beloved husband and your two young boys. It is heartbreaking to know your lives together have been so abruptly cut short.
I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to know Samantha, even if only in a limited work capacity. She was a truly wonderful person, a consummate professional in her work who graced all in the council with her presence. Samantha will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Gyda chariad ar yr adeg anodd, bydded iddi orffwys mewn heddwch.
Dafydd- We are so saddened for the loss of your wife and soulmate and mother to your beautiful boys, Thomas and Connor. We had the pleasure of meeting Sam on numerous occasions through our mutual work. A lovely lady who was clearly very caring and very much loved. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel who will watch over you and your boys and be a guiding light xxx
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd, Thomas and Connor
- Approved by oconnellWe were all shocked to receive your heartbreaking news last year about Sam’s dreadful illness, and now the saddest news, of her death. I am very sorry to say I never met Sam. From everything I have heard and read, it is obvious that she was a truly beautiful person. I know that she will be sorely missed as a very, very special friend, wife and Mum.
Words cannot change what has happened however I hope these will bring some small measure of comfort. Here is a quote from The Prophet (Khalil Gibran)
‘Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.’
All my love, Dinah XXXXX
Dear Daf and family, so deeply saddened to learn of Sams passing, whilst I didn’t know Sam personally, the living and heartfelt testaments and recollections from Daf leave me under no illusion that Sam was a special beautiful person, talented and selfless with bountiful love for her family and the great outdoors. The world has lost a special person. Take comfort that heaven will shine down brighter with her light. Love and best wishes to you all.
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd, Thomas and Connor,
We were all shocked to receive your heartbreaking news last year about Sam’s dreadful illness, and now the saddest news, of her death. Sam was a truly beautiful person. She will be sorely missed as a very, very special friend, wife and Mum. I know you will have many happy memories to bring you comfort in times ahead.
Here is a quote from The Prophet (Khalil Gibran)
‘Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.’
Wishing you peace and healing.
All my love, Dinah XXXXX
Deepest condolences Daf from Steve, Avril & Kara – our thoughts are with you and your boys
Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there. I do not sleep.
- Approved by oconnellI am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die.
Sam, Your loving happy soul will live in our hearts forever.
Townsville, Queensland Australia was your and Daf’s home for a few short years. In that time Chris and I were privileged to have met you, become workmates at Department of Lands, and become wonderful Aussie friends. The memories of the many great times we shared are dearly cherished.
Our deepest sympathy to Dafydd, Thomas, and Connor, and families.
Love always xxx, Len and Chris Ezzy
- Approved by oconnellDear Daffyd.
- Approved by oconnellWe were so sad to hear the news of Samantha’s passing and are sending our sincere condolences to you and your boys.
Roy and Annette Keller
Townsville
I am deeply saddened to have heard the passing of of Sam who I regard as a dear friend. I worked with Sam and Gay in the Records Department of James Cook University in Townsville. Sam was a wonderful Boss and would always put others first, Sam would come and have a chat to see if there were any problems work or personal wise, Sam cared so much. Sam was always interested in hearing about my children, my garden and the renovations we were doing to our house. I also remember when Dafydd contacted me to ask if I could possible help organise a surprise 30th Birthday party for Sam, I didn’t hesitate, Sam had no idea of the surprise in store for her, people who loved her arrived to celebrate big time and Sam loved it.
Sam will always be in my heart as a beautiful, caring soul inside and out and I am so proud to have known Sam.
Deepest condolences to Dafydd, Thomas, Connor and Sam’s family xxx
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd,Thomas and Connor,
- Approved by oconnellMy deepest condolences on your sad loss of a wonderful wife and mother.My thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
From all the testaments I have read today from numerous friends and colleagues
Samantha was a much loved and beautiful person,you,Dafydd and her wonderful boys were her life.
“Think of her as living in the hearts of those she touched,
For nothing loved is ever lost, and she was loved so much.”
Samantha will always be loved,never forgotten and missed by all who knew her.
My thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
Much love Auntie Carol.
Sincere condolences to you all. A beautiful legacy she has left behind in Thomas and Connor xx
- Approved by oconnellMy deepest condolences to you all. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
- Approved by oconnellDafydd,
- Approved by oconnellSaddened to hear os Sam’s passing. It was a joy to read about her wonderful life. As your family grows up you will have wonderful memories to pass on of your life with Sam. Very best wishes to you and the boys.
Our deepest condolences to Dafydd, Thomas and Connor on the loss of a beautiful lady. She will always be in our thoughts. Our love goes out to you all
- Approved by oconnellSuzanne, Sarah and Fern
xxx
Dear Daffyd, Thomas and Connor,
Sam was one of the very first people in Crewe to befriend me, when our two Thomas were tiny. The mums and teacher from Rhythm Time join me in sending their condolences. She was such a loving mum, and a good friend – always ready to listen.
With love to you all, Sarah, John, Thomas and Grace
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd,
- Approved by oconnellThank you so much for giving us the opportunity to join you to say farewell to Sam via the webcast today. It was a beautiful and heart warming service, you did her proud. Sam will be watching over you and the boys while you make all those memories with them. Rest in peace Sam, out hearts and thoughts are with you all.
Love from Kath & Maurice xx
It was such a pleasure to have known Sam and look after her beautiful children. Her eyes were always full of love and she always had time to chat. It was a pleasure also to be able to be part of the webcast today and hear the wonderful stories about Sam’s life. I will never forget Sam’s interest in Art as we talked about our children together. She had such loving words and was appreciative of everything.
- Approved by oconnellRest in peace Sam
Love from Claire (Haslington Kids Planet)
So sad that such an interesting, talented and good life has been ended so early. My thoughts and condolences go to all Sam’s friends and family. Especially Thomas and Connor who will grow up only hearing how wonderful their mum was..
- Approved by oconnellAll our love Andy & Cath.
Today’s service was beautiful.
The lovely words and songs were a heartwarming tribute to a lovely wife, mother, daughter and friend.
Our thoughts are with you all. Lots of love to Thomas and Connor ????
Simon and Mya
- Approved by oconnellDafydd,
- Approved by oconnellI was so sorry to hear the sad news of Sam’s passing and my deepest condolences go to you, Thomas and Connor. You are all very much in my thoughts at this difficult time.
Dave
Dafydd,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Sam, my heart goes out to you and your family. While I have never had the honor of meeting Sam I can tell from the post that she was an incredible woman. Please know that you and your family are in my family’s thoughts during this time.
Scott
- Approved by oconnellDear Dafydd,
I am so very sorry to hear about Sam. My thoughts and blessings go out to you and your boys in this difficult time. Though I never met Sam, she sounds like an amazing woman who positively impacted everyone she met. May her memories give you strength and peace. Thinking of you…
- Approved by oconnellPaula
Hi Dafydd,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your lovely wife. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your whole family.
- Approved by oconnellJenny
My dearest cousin Samantha,
- Approved by oconnellTo hear and read how well loved and thought of you are by so many loved ones and friends, speaks volumes to who you were as a person in life. Dafydd, Connor and Thomas will fulfil your travel dreams for sure in your memory. We missed so many years catching up through different directions in life, but when we meet again, we’ll have so much to say. Shine bright tonight amongst the stars Samantha
Love from Simon x
Dear Dafydd
- Approved by oconnellWe are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Samantha. Sam holds a special place forever in our hearts with such wonderful memories of the time you both lived with us in Townsville. Oh what wonderful days they were when we were all young and care free. Sam will be always remembered for her laughter, her warmth, her love of a great time and for teaching me to never do the laundry on New Years Day – “so you don’t wash the year away.” Still to this day I never do.
To Thomas and Connor – take care of your daddy. He will keep your beautiful mum alive in your hearts with every passing year.
We will plant a rose on our farm in Sams memory.
Rest In Peace Samantha and our deepest sympathy to Daf, Thomas and Connor.
Carla and Jack Lang (Bendigo, Australia)