A Celebration of Samii
- Patriot Community
- May 13
- 5 min read
Friends, faculty, and family have all shared some words to remember and celebrate the life of Samii Soriya Thein
We are tremendously thankful and grateful for all your love, prayers, support, and donations for the loss of our beloved Samii. We greatly appreciate your kindness, sympathy and compassion. Thank you beyond words!
With love and appreciations,
Thein Family
Words cannot begin to describe Samii, but if I had to choose a few, they would be:
Kind, Loving, Giving, Welcoming, Inclusive
I use the word inclusive because Samii was loved by so many due to the fact that she wasn't judging who you were or who you hung out with. She tried to be friends with whoever she could. Samii made special memories for my kiddos by displaying such kindness and love to them every time we attended a school play. Especially after the Frozen play, they all shared how much they loved how Samii played Anna, "She's the best Anna EVER!!"
Samii will be missed by so many, I pray one day she will know how loved she was and how much she was missed.
-- Danielle Munoz
I first "met" Samantha Soriya Thein on stage and in character. Her passion and talent were present from the start!
I had further chances to interact with Samantha as she visited the College and Career Center, seeking academic advice for her future.
One of my most meaningful connections was after the PINK Breast Cancer Awareness PHS Volleyball Game of 2025. Ms. Monville and I were taking a picture with the pink ribbons on the gym wall in honor of those who fight Breast Cancer.
On her own, Samantha approached us and asked if we would like her to take a picture of us. She was honestly and lovingly wanting to connect.
The essence of Samantha Soriya Thein.
-- Sharon R. McDonough
Dear Samii,
It does break my heart now that you’re gone, you’ve left so many memories. I will always remember you for who you are, for how you love, for how you express yourself in your own fashion, for how your smile shows your dimples, for how you manage to speak in front of many people with such wisdom, and for how you laugh. Samii, I admired you especially in Link Crew, the way you can speak in public so easily.
Sam it breaks my heart not to see you in our math class. On the last day in class, we were just writing something on our wrist, on our hand and you were literally laughing so much, I even asked you, "Why do you have a sudden burst of energy?”
We had countless times in our math class doing our study guide with Ava, Suri, Sara, Ali, and the others. We didn't even finish the study guide with all of our talking, making Mrs. Ortiz tells us to stop talking.
Thank you for who you are to me. May your beautiful soul reach peace, may you rest in peace Samii. Know that you are cool and so special.
With Love,
Dexee Aninon
I met Samii in Link Crew. My table was really small and I was the only one there until my friend Nat sat with me and then Samii followed behind her. The small table made us closer.
Samii, Nat, and I would talk about Link Crew lessons, drama and gossip. This year was the year Samii and I got closer. It’s not fair that it would only last a few months.
In the time I got to know her, we spoke of things that we loved, like theater and other things, and to me she looked happy. I want to remember her that way.
She was so involved in everything. Theater, cross country, Link Crew, etc. She was an “all in and no outs” kind of person. I admire her for that. She had so much dedication and curiosity. She was funny and her social battery could recharge yours in a second.
"I hope when people think about Samii they remember her for the impact she had on our school. I hope they remember her smile and the feeling she gave us when she was around."
So much love to you, Samii from all around!
Your Friend,
Yaretzi Macias Rivera
Samii was a model student in CTE - Graphic Design. I took some photos for a slideshow, in which Samii demonstrates a step-by-step process for that class. I believe the pic of her with her new bag on her shoulder, looking toward the light is special.
-- Robert S. Green
Teacher on Special Assignment — Career Tech Ed
As educators, we are tasked to work alongside students from all walks of life. Even among them all, Samii will stand out as one of the brightest shining stars in our community. Though my heart is heavy at this time, I am genuinely grateful for the times we shared and for the loving energy she brought to our school.
It would be difficult to find a corner of our campus where Samii's impact is unseen. Her captivating personality and delightful smile always managed to fill any room she entered. Not only was she an academic star and athlete, Samii was a good person. She embodied so many of the traits we try to instill in our students. Her heart was caring and her spirit was genuine. I truly relish every conversation I shared with her.
To all those who hold Samii dear: Let us remember her for the light, laughter, and warmth she brought to us. As we move forward, know that your treasured memories with her will stay forever. The love, comfort, and support you gave each other through this difficult time truly showed our Patriot community at its best.
Lets keep that same spirit as we wish peace for our sweet Samii.
Above everything else, remember you are never truly alone. You are surrounded by people who have love and care for you. All you need to do is reach out. To all students: If you are ever in need of anything, my door is always open to you.
-- Mr. E
"Above everything else, remember you are never truly alone. You are surrounded by people who have love and care for you. All you need to do is reach out."
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