Samson Ennis Matthews

Samson Ennis Matthews was born on March 9, 1999, in Boise, Idaho. The first born of identical mirror twins. Samson lived a life surrounded by friends being the 6th of 9 children. Sam was dedicated to lifelong learning - always willing to listen and grow. One of Samson’s greatest gifts was their love of music. From taking piano and cello lessons as a child to eventually teaching piano and composing their own music, music ultimately became their area of academic study. Sam attended Renaissance High School, where they concurrently earned their International Baccalaureate diploma for music. Samson was scheduled to graduate in 2022 from the University of Idaho with a degree in Piano Performance and a minor in Music Composition. A performance of portions of Samson’s senior recital will be performed by the Lionel Hampton School of Music on December 4th to honor their absence. 

Sam used their music as a form of self expression and to connect with others. Samson was a human rights and environmental activist and proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Sam identified as a non-binary transgender individual and used they/them pronouns. Samson was considered a light and warmth by many. Often described as a friend to all, they were known to open their arms to anyone in need and fight radically for those experiencing social injustice.

On November 14, 2021, Samson died unexpectedly in a tragic car accident north of New Meadows. Samson was a source of happiness and love to those who knew them and will be forever missed. Samson is survived by their grandparents Lawrence and Louise Ward; parents Harrison (Pratt) and Alexandra (Andra) Matthews; siblings: Marcus (Tessa) Matthews, Spencer (Marcie) Matthews, Harrison Ammon (Wendy) Matthews, Savannah (Robert) Garbett, Benson (Meah) Matthews, Maxwell (Jennicia) Matthews, Hyrum Matthews, and Joseph Matthews as well as 10 nieces and nephews and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial services will be held in their honor on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 11am in the Salmon River Room located on the east side of the West Ada Office at 1303 E. Central Dr., Meridian, ID 83642. A virtual stream will also be available via Zoom (ID: 932 2364 2256) - https://bit.ly/3oJXBe6  (see direct link below for easy access).