Vivian Cooke-Bales

When Samantha walked through the door, the whole room lit up. She was a striking woman, distinct in style and manner. Her brown eyes sparkled, her composure evident, energy pervaded, but it was that little scent of “wit” that captivated one.

As a youth, Samantha lived in a disruptive and troubled home. Once on her own, she vowed to make a new life for herself. She had a keen awareness of herself and a clear vision of the ascetic life she so desired. She knew a lot of diligent hard work was in order to reach her goals—and work she did.

Sam and my son Allen, early their relationship, bought an older run-down house in Lakewood. It had a huge yard that was also rundown. On moving day, while friends were unloading endless boxes, I found Samantha in the basement painting an old drab washing sink in a brilliant color. Perplexed, I suggested that perhaps the sink painting could wait so she could unpack some of those boxes, but Sam had her own set of rules. After she finished the sink, she went upstairs to paint the bathroom. This set the tone of her work ethics and of her strong will to achieve her goals.

While remodeling their house and building Allen’s studio in the backyard, they tackled the job of cleaning up the decaying yard. With no knowledge of gardening, Sam and Allen created a beautiful landscape, which was later featured on a home gardening tour. The two worked endlessly together.

Sam taught herself many skills. She had no formal education, but she had that “drive.” She learned to make hand paper, how to plaster walls, how to set up a business in interior design. She painted colorful abstracts on large canvasses. She had an unerring eye for fashion—she always looked stunning and vibrant. Kitchen skills were not neglected—she delighted in putting together a lobster bisque or colorful salad. Sam was unlimited in her creative powers.

Samantha loved as hard as she worked. She was devoted to Allen and showed unending love and care for him. In turn, she was intrinsic to Allen’s own aspirations. They loved , they dreamed, they worked. And then they worked and loved some more. They were a team.

As I walk through my home, I see the omnipresence of Samantha —little footprints everywhere that speak of her creativity, her love, her soul. Such a strong force! She was a singular source of beauty, devotion, and wisdom.

Carole Bales, Author