Samuel Joseph Baptista

SAMUEL JOSEPH BAPTISTA

July 20, 1951 - August 3, 2025

Samuel Joseph Baptista passed away suddenly at his home in Park City, UT, on August 3, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of accomplishment, adventure, and love. He was born on July 20, 1951, to Sam and Helen Baptista in Tallahassee, FL. Sam will be remembered for his astute political acumen, strong work ethic, passion for a good time with family and friends, and his enthusiasm for the great outdoors.

He spent his formative years in Boca Raton where he attended high school and played football. Sam went on to graduate from Florida State University (FSU). After graduating from FSU, he moved to Washington, DC. There he embarked upon a distinguished career, leading the effort to pass landmark legislation, the Financial Services Modernization Act, signed into law by President Bill Clinton in November 1999. The bill rewrote the country’s financial regulation rulebook, allowing commercial banking, investment banking, and insurance to become more integrated.

Sam was founder and president of the Financial Services Council, an entity he formed with the nation’s major banking institutions to promote the development of an open and competitive financial services marketplace. Prior to this position, he served as a managing director with Morgan Stanley, responsible for U.S. and international government affairs and policy. He worked in various roles in the financial services industry, and was a legislative aide in Congress. In 2015, he settled in Park City with his wife and loving partner, Denise Bell, and felt blessed to build a new life in such a wonderful and welcoming community.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sam was an avid skier, golfer, sports enthusiast, ardent FSU Seminoles fan, and flew gliders. He was also a supporter of the Park City Egyptian Theatre, and other charitable causes. He traveled far and wide, from Europe and South America, to Asia and Africa.

Sam is survived by his wife, his sister, Johe Morris, brother-in-law, Hal Morris, and adoring dogs, Marni and Nike. He will be deeply missed.

Services will be held on August 25, 11:00 am MT, at St. Mary’s Church, 1505 White Pine Canyon Road in Park City, UT.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Heart Association.