On August 1, 2025, my beloved sister Samantha Kay Hegenheiser was taken from us far too soon. Samantha was a blue-eyed, ginger-haired woman with a heart full of love for her daughter Anne and a lifelong affection for cats. She was fun-loving, incredibly smart, and the best sister anyone could ask for. We were 13 years apart, and for many years I was her built-in babysitter. As adults, we reconnected and discovered a bond that felt like we were twins, just born years apart. The last words she said to me were, "I love you Sissy," words I will always cherish.

Samantha had recently moved to Memphis, hoping for a fresh start after facing many hardships, including the loss of her daughter due to illness and her partner to circumstances beyond her control. She was just settling into her new home when she passed away, alone and with a deeply broken heart. Despite everything, she was trying to rebuild her life, but she never got the chance.

Samantha had a small insurance policy that my mother took out years ago for her and I but was concerned that will not cover the funeral costs. We want to give her the memorial she deserves—a four-day gathering with an extended service, fresh food, flowers, and a beautiful obituary. Donations will help cover funeral home charges, cremation, an urn for her remains, and accommodations for guests and as many of her pending financial obligations as possible. Your support means the world to us during this difficult time. Thank you for sharing in Samantha’s life and for any help you can give. Your kindness is priceless to our family. God bless.