Samuel Brignoni's Obituary
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Samuel “Sam” Brignoni, born on June 13, 1999. Sam was a sweet, kind soul whose smile, sense of humor, and gentle spirit brought joy to everyone who knew him.
From the time he was a young boy, Sam loved sports. He spent his early years playing and competing, and many of his summers were devoted to travel baseball—a sport he loved deeply. Those years brought so many special memories—long summer days, tournament weekends, treasured family trips, and lifelong friendships. He also played basketball in junior high and continued playing baseball in high school, always bringing heart, dedication, and quiet determination to the game.
As he moved through college, Sam began facing health struggles that were difficult to fully understand. Even in the midst of those challenges, Sam kept trying every day. He fought hard to be okay, to feel normal, and to keep going. His strength in that fight will never be forgotten.
Sam was blessed with many friends and was loved by so many. He had a wonderful sense of humor that showed itself in the littlest ways, and a warmth that made people feel comfortable, seen, and happy to be around him. His presence was easy to love.
Sam shared a very close and special bond with his father, Richard, who cared for him deeply. Their relationship was one of quiet understanding, love, and constant support. He was also deeply loved by his mother, Kristi, who cherished every moment with him. Every day with Sam was a gift. Some of the most treasured moments were the simple ones—walking together, talking about nature, sports, sharing thoughts on recent shows and movies they had commonly watched, and just enjoying his company. Those ordinary conversations are now extraordinary memories, held close with love.
Sam was also a deeply loved brother to Alex and a cherished brother-in-law to Sydney, who cared for him dearly. Alex loved him fiercely. In his words, Sam had “the biggest smile,” “a pure heart,” and “the brightest of lights,” and he saw how hard Sam fought each day.
“Every second since you left us, all I can think about is your smile… You had the biggest smile. I just want to hug you again and tell you how much I love you… I know how much you fought every day… Your heart was pure. Your soul was the brightest of lights. You made so many people happy. Everyone loved you… I can’t wait to see you again, Sammy.”
Sam was surrounded by a close-knit and loving extended family who lived nearby and were an important part of his life—his grandparents, Ken and Becky Witte, his uncle and aunt, Mike and Amy Witte, and their children, Sully and Graham; and his aunt, Kelly Witte, and her children, Eli and Chelsea. His grandparents, Ken and Becky, never missed a sporting event or special moment in Sam’s life, always showing up with unwavering love and support. Birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings were filled with laughter, connection, and love—moments that will forever be treasured.
Sam will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, his love of sports, his friendships, and the joy he brought into the lives of his family. He was deeply loved, and he always will be.
He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who cherished him, and countless memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
The services for Sam will be private and held by the family.
In lieu of flowers you may follow the link to donate to Friends of Fayetteville Parks-
https://www.fofpar.org/
What’s your fondest memory of Samuel?
What’s a lesson you learned from Samuel?
Share a story where Samuel's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Samuel you’ll never forget.
How did Samuel make you smile?

