a woman of unparalleled faith, devotion, strength, and love, passed away on December 30, 2024, after an arduous 16-and-a-half-month battle with Stage 4 lung cancer. Despite the immense challenges of her diagnosis, Samantha fought valiantly—not for herself, but for the precious time she could spend with the people she loved most. She attributed her resilience throughout her young 55 years of life to her deep adoration for her family and loved ones.
Samantha grew up in Houston and Spring, Texas, but her most cherished childhood memories were of driving down country roads in "Dad’s" car with the wind blowing through her hair, listening to old country music. She especially looked forward to weekends in Broaddus, Texas, spent with her cousins, her treasured grandparents, and the entire Chelette family.
In 1997, Samantha met her husband, James Friddle, and together they built a beautiful family in Spring, Texas. They welcomed their first daughter, Hannah Nicole, in the winter of 1999, followed by their second daughter, Haley Elizabeth, in the winter of 2002. Samantha’s family grew complete in 2006 when she surprised her young girls with Daisy, her cherished American cocker spaniel. Daisy accompanied Samantha for 17 years, growing up alongside her daughters and becoming an inseparable part of the family.
Samantha worked as a Realtor for most of her adult life. In 2011, she joined the esteemed Ronnie and Cathy Matthews Group at RE/MAX Legends, where she spent eleven years helping others find their dream homes. Samantha took immense pride in matching each client with the perfect house, and her diligence and dedication were reflected in her many achievements. Clients often described her as someone who went "above and beyond," showing "true kindness" and "genuine care."
In 2020, James and Samantha acquired a small piece of land in Hempstead, Texas, adjacent to family property. Samantha tirelessly worked on the barren land, transforming it into her sanctuary. She found solace and purpose in the simplicity and beauty of working the land, creating countless cherished memories with her family that will live on in their hearts forever.
Samantha’s tenacious spirit carried her through endless rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. She fought fiercely for precious time with her family, and her final days were spent in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loved ones. She was taken too soon, but no amount of time would have ever been enough. Samantha is survived by her husband, James Friddle; her daughters, Hannah and Haley Friddle; her father, Larry Chelette; her mother, Gwen Chelette; and her sister, Maddie Edmondson.
Samantha’s family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff at MD Anderson for the exceptional care and kindness they showed her. From nurses who stayed beyond their shifts to comfort her, to doctors who tirelessly advocated for her treatment, their unwavering compassion brought solace during an incredibly difficult time. The respect and humanity they showed Samantha and her family left an indelible mark, and her loved ones will forever be grateful.
While the grief of losing Samantha feels monumental, it will never outweigh the joy and gratitude for the memories she created and the love she shared.
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