Samuel Andrew Lightner

In Loving Memory of Samuel Andrew Lightner

October 6, 1985 – April 17, 2026

Samuel Andrew Lightner, 40, of Portland, Oregon, passed away on April 17, 2026.

Sam attended kindergarten at Rice School and continued his education at Rose City Park Elementary and Gregory Heights Middle School. He was a member of the graduating class of 2004 from U.S. Grant High School and later spent a couple of years furthering his studies at Portland Community College. Just recently, Sam had the joy of reconnecting with old friends and classmates while attending his 20-year high school reunion.

Known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor, Sam had a natural gift for making people laugh and lived his life to the fullest as best he could. He enjoyed traveling to visit friends and making memories. His adventures took him across the globe to Sweden and Norway, as well as trips to Washington D.C., North Carolina, Tennessee, Florida, and Texas. Sam also cherished numerous trips with family and friends to the Oregon Coast, Disneyland, Lost Lake, and Sunriver and many other day trips. For Sam, the destination was always about the connection; he cherished the time spent with his great friends and family and the memories they created together.

Sam is survived by his mother and step-father, Debbie and Chris Campbell; his sister, Emily Carell; his brother and sister-in-law, Nathan and Jordan Lightner; his half-sister, Leah Filar; and his grandmother, Karen Neff. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews, as well as many dear cousins, aunts, and uncles. Sam was preceded in death by his father, David Lightner, in 2008; his grandfather, Robert Neff, in 2020; and his paternal grandparents, Albert Lightner and Jacqueline McNally.

The family will hold a private burial at Rose City Cemetery. Because Sam loved a good time and the company of those he cared for and who cared about him, a Celebration of Life will be held in early summer 2026 to honor Sam and share stories in memory of him.

Sam’s family would like to thank everyone who loved Sam, cared for him, and helped him in so many ways throughout his life. His life was fuller because of you all.