Robert Samuel "Sam" Lilly

With deepest sadness, we announce the passing of Sam Lilly (May 9, 1990 - March 15, 2024). Sam passed away peacefully with his wife at his bedside, less than a year after being diagnosed with metastatic melanoma. The bravery and resilience Sam displayed during his treatment would surprise none of those who knew and loved him. His zest for life and unending commitment to his family drove Sam to fight until the very last day.

Sam was the beloved husband of Lauren Lilly (née Lanzo); cherished son of Carol and Robert Lilly; dear brother to Anna Lilly, her husband David, Katie Norton and her husband Troy; and favorite uncle to James, Lilly, Nora, and Samuel Maddox Norton. He is also survived by his grandparents, Bob and Molly Lilly, and Elroy and Carloyn Waltzer, as well as many loving cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws, and countless friends. He is preceded in death by Rhonda Lilly.

Sam grew up in Annapolis, Maryland and attended South River High School. He then graduated from University of Maryland, College Park with a degree in Environmental Science. Sam developed a love of the Chesapeake and sailing in his youth, attending and teaching at the Annapolis Sailing School. Ever the adventurer, after college, he taught sailing and captained boat charters in Charleston, SC, where he met his wife, Lauren. Lauren and Sam were inseparable best friends. They celebrated 11 years together and three years of marriage after a small wedding at Lauren's family home in Baltimore, Maryland in September 2020.

Sam also graduated from The Landing School in Kennebunkport, ME where he honed his boat design skills, before finding his dream job as a Jr. Marine Engineer with the Maritime Applied Physics Corporation. He and Lauren made a home in Annapolis with their dog, Winnie. He continued to pursue a second degree in Ocean Engineering while working full time. Sam had a gift for his craft and coworkers described the important impact he made within their group despite his too-short career.

Aside from his sea-faring hobbies, Sam loved watching the Ravens and Orioles, listening to live music, spending time with his friends and family, traveling abroad with his wife, rousing backyard games with Winnie, playing with his nieces and nephews, and settling in with a good movie and a puzzle. Sam was the best companion and brought joy to everyone around him, friends and strangers alike. He will be remembered and greatly missed for his witty sense of humor, contagious smile, and adventurous, fun-loving spirit.

Sam's family will plan a memorial in his honor in the coming months. They plan to endow a gift to The Landing School in his name and will share this information for those interested in making a contribution.