In Loving Memory of Samuel George Harlow

Samuel George Harlow of Essex Jct, VT.

On May 2, 2025, Sam passed quietly at our home from cardiac arrest with me by his side. Born August 9, 1991, spending the first 2 years of his life in Enosburg Falls, VT, before moving to Essex Junction.

A proud graduate of Essex High School, class of 2009, Sam was known for his loyal friendships and his love of spending time with friends, both in person and through his passion for computer games. His warmth and humor left a lasting impact on those close to him.

Sam struggled with mental health issues since his late teens. He faced many challenges trying to navigate a broken system. Sam felt the need to seek relief and began self-medicating with illegal substances. This choice would eventually lead to him acquiring HIV/AIDS. Sam had many health challenges, all of which contributed to the cardiac arrest that took his life.

As his mother, I was able to care for him for the last year and a half of his life. I saw him almost daily and assisted with rides to the grocery store, doctor appointments, trips to McDonald's or Starbucks, grabbing his laundry, and giving him back rubs to help relieve the constant pain he was experiencing. These moments, though often difficult, became deeply meaningful, and I wouldn't trade them for anything. We created so many memories that I will carry with me always.

I would like to thank Amanda Cain at the Howard Center, her expertise helped me navigate the world of a person with severe mental illness. A big shout out to the staff of Street Outreach, First Call Crisis, Dr. Heath, and staff at Safe Harbor Health Center, the Chittenden Clinic, the many, many doctors, nurses, social workers, and emergency personnel who cared for Sam throughout the years.

My husband, Dale, stood beside me through the hardest days, always offering a listening ear and steady support. My family has been my unwavering rock—checking in, asking after Sam, and offering love every step of the way. Sam was blessed with devoted aunts and uncles who provided quiet but powerful support behind the scenes.

Sam is survived by myself, his mother, Susan Hayes Whitney, and stepfather Dale of Williston, VT, his brother, Gordon J. Harlow of Eugene, OR, Stepbrother, Drew Whitney of Cave Creek, AZ, Stepsister Marlo Whitney of Mesa, AZ,

Stepbrother Bryce Whitney of White River Jct., VT, his uncles and aunts Pat and Kirsten Hayes of Enosburg Falls, VT, Steve and Kitty Hayes of Williston, VT, Kathy and David Lamb of Wilder, VT, and George and Andrea Hayes of Colchester, VT. Sam was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, James and Helen Hayes of Enosburg Falls, VT.

Sam is also survived by his father and stepmother James and Elizabeth Harlow of Middlesex, VT.

In place of flowers, please support your local facilities that assist people with mental health, substance abuse disorders, and homelessness. Locally, Sam and I utilized the Howard Center, the Community Health Centers of Chittenden County, Turning Point, COTS, Cathedral Housing Trust, and CVOEO.

A Memorial Celebration will be scheduled at a later date.