Samuel Neill

January 4, 2000 - March 22, 2018

This world suffered a tremendous loss on Thursday March 22nd with the too soon passing of Samuel Neill. Born in Highland Utah on January 4, 2000. Sam, at only 18, was a force of passion. He had a huge heart, full of love and a spirit so strong, there was not enough room in this world to contain him. Sam was always and is still meant for greatness, and as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we all will be blessed for the work he has gone on ahead of us to perform. When meeting Sam, you would have been captured by his smile and instantly loved him. He made friends with everyone, easily. As if knowing what they needed and being able to offer it effortlessly. With his patience and presence he had the capacity to make you feel as though you were the most important person in the world. If you were his friend…you knew he loved you, with all of his heart. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for the people that he cared about. Crazy smart, without even trying. Sam loved studying and learning, about absolutely everything. He accomplished so much. Graduating from high school as well as receiving his associates degree from UVU a full year early, with plans to pursue a degree in Law. As a cub scout, he was king. He was recognized and received nearly every award available, even those hard to find. His undertaking of Shakespeare rose him to the honor of High King. On the soccer field, he knew no fear. Whether his team won or lost never mattered, it was all about giving it his all. He loved being active and was always on the go. Hanging out with his friends outside adventuring or inside listening to music and playing video games for a fat minute was lit. If there was food involved, even better, especially if it was him doing the cooking. Music was a gift, He loved the guitar and drums and held his own on the theater stage in a variety of roles in multiple productions. His involvement with speech and debate and mock trial showed him to have the brightest mind, ease of speaking and ability to influence anyone who listened. A trip to Catalina spurred a love of the ocean and he was able to go back to the beach again in California this past June enjoying the waves, the sun, the food and his family like only Sam can. His most cherished accomplishment was that of baptizing his younger sister Mattea and little brother Liam this past December. That, by far, was the greatest and most memorable experience for him to share with his family. Every endeavor he took on with this same determination and focus, even stubbornness. Sam’s loyalty to his family was monumental, above everything else. He loved and protected them fiercely. He was the backbone, the muscle, the peace. Always willing to do the hard work, always thoughtful with gifts, support and concern. Always willing to stop what he was doing and help. Sam’s favorite verse was 2 Nephi 2:25 Adam Fell that men might be; and men are that they might have joy. May Sam rest in peace, having found his joy in returning to his Father in Heaven. Sam is survived by his mother Nicole de la Vega, sisters Emily, Heather, Haley and Mattea and adoring little brother Liam- all of Highland. And father Matthew Neill of Farmington. As well as all of those too many to list whose hearts he has touched. Funeral Services will be held Friday, March 30th, at 11:00 am, at the Highland LDS Chapel located at 10230 North Alpine Hwy, Highland, Utah, where a Viewing will be held prior from 9:00 to 10:30 am. Funeral Directors: Utah Valley Mortuary.