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Samuel Harris Obituary
June 30, 1984 - January 28, 2025
San Mateo, California - Samuel Hopkins Harris was born in Fresno, California on June 30, 1984, to Hal Harris and Sara Hedgpeth-Harris. He passed away in San Mateo, California on January 28, 2025.
Sam graduated from Sunnyside High School and UCLA with a history degree. He obtained a teaching credential from Cal State San Francisco. His career as a social studies and history teacher began at Westborough Middle School in South San Francisco, and he taught the last nine years at Menlo-Atherton High School as an AP social studies teacher. Sam was a student favorite and was known for his unique and engaging teaching style.
Sam shared a love for the game of golf with his brother, Charlie, and they were both highly successful competitors in NorCal Junior Golf. Sam returned to the game as an adult and his passion led to him becoming a highly competitive NorCal Amateur player.
Sam had a unique ability to befriend animals like foxes and raccoons, but he especially loved dogs. He and his dog, Ollie, were regulars at Bay Area dog parks, golf courses and restaurants.
We are grateful for the many friends, students and colleagues who have expressed their affection for Sam and shared how he touched their lives.
Sam is survived by his parents, Hal and Sari, and brother Charlie and his family (Lauren Beatty-Harris, Nikos, Noah and Nina), as well as many family members who will miss him.
Celebrations of Sam's life will be held in San Mateo at Laurie Meadows Park on March 22nd at noon and in Fresno at the Harris home on May 24th at 4 p.m.
You can make donations in Sam's name to Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA https://phs-spca.org/donate/gifts/.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Harris
Jackson Wright
May 4, 2025
He was a great teacher, one of my favorite.
Cathy Cirimele Hansen
April 27, 2025
I am so sorry. So difficult to lose a child. My condolences.
Gary & Janet Ferguson
March 7, 2025
Hal, Sari so sad for your loss. Our prayers to you and your Family, Fergie
Carmen De la Rosa
March 2, 2025
My condolences to Mr and Mrs Harris and Charlie . I cherish memories of Sam and Charlie being part of my Pediatric practice since infants. Both were handsome, fortunately healthy, active children who brought much joy to those around them. My prayers to all who mourning as I too join you in your sadness. Rest in peace Sam.
Pat Marchese
March 2, 2025
I remember when Hal would bring Sammy to our baseball practices. I was playing in the outfield one night and saw Sammy hitting rocks with my new aluminum bat. He was such an active kid who was full of surprises. My heart is broken hearing of his passing.
Edward Phillips
February 25, 2025
Hal,Sari and Charlie,
So sorry for your loss.
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