Samuel "Sammy" Childers

Samuel Stewart Childers, age 33, of Northwood, passed away on Friday, October 12, 2026. Sammy was born to Sandra Perry and Bobby G. Childers Jr. on August 14, 1993 in Toledo, Ohio. He was a 2012 graduate of Northwood High School/Penta Career Center. Sammy’s major was in Digital Arts/Graphic Design that he loved.

Sammy was a fighter from the very beginning. Born with heart defects, he faced challenges and endured numerous surgeries throughout his life. The odds were against him from birth, but Sammy continued to fight, blessing his family with 33 precious years they will forever be grateful for. His favorite quote was, “Only the strong survive,” and those words perfectly reflected the strength and determination he carried throughout his life. Sammy truly lived those words, meeting life's challenges with a fighting spirit that never defined him by what he couldn't do, but by what he continued to overcome.

Sammy loved skateboarding and playing basketball. One of his happiest moments came when his lifelong cardiologist, Dr. Suarez, finally approved him to play basketball with the Northwood school team. After facing so many heart-related challenges throughout his life, getting the chance to step onto that court meant the world to him. He may have been the smallest player out there, but he pushed himself harder than anyone. Sammy never let his size or his medical challenges determine what he could accomplish. He showed the same determination on the court that had carried him through life since the day he was born.

Sammy was also known for his stubbornness, but that was simply part of what made him who he was. Beneath that stubborn streak was a jokester who loved to make people laugh — and sometimes scream! He especially loved scaring everyone with his face masks, and with Halloween being his favorite holiday, it was no surprise that he enjoyed keeping everyone on their toes. His mischievous sense of humor and love for a good scare created unforgettable memories that his family and friends will carry with them always. Even in the hardest moments, Sammy had his own way of bringing laughter and personality into the lives of those around him.

But the greatest joy of Sammy’s life came with the birth of his beautiful son, Enzo, with his love, Hannah. No words could ever fully express how deeply Sammy loved his little boy and Hannah. He had so many hopes and dreams for Enzo and often spoke about all the things he wished for him as he grew. Being Enzo's dad brought Sammy a happiness unlike anything else, and his love for his son was immeasurable.

The bond between Sammy and Enzo was something truly special. Enzo loved his dada just as deeply, looking at him as though there were a little bit of magic between them. Their connection was unmistakable, a beautiful bond built on a love that words could never fully explain. Sammy's dreams and wishes for his son were a reflection of just how much he wanted for Enzo and how deeply he hoped to see him grow and experience life. That love will always be a part of Enzo, and the bond they shared will forever remain one of the most precious parts of Sammy's story.

Though Sammy faced more challenges in his 33 years than many face in a lifetime, he was so much more than the battles he fought. He was a beloved son, brother, partner, father, and friend. He was strong-willed, determined, competitive, mischievous, and full of love for the people who mattered most to him. His life was a testament to perseverance, but it was also filled with family bonds, friendships, laughter, and a father's unconditional love for his little boy.

Sammy fought from the very beginning. He faced the odds, made his own memories, loved with all his heart, and left an imprint on the lives of those who were fortunate enough to share in his journey. Though his family must now learn to live without him, the love he gave and the memories he created will remain with them forever. Sammy's fight may have ended, but his story, his strength, and his love will never be forgotten.

Sammy is survived by his significant other, Hannah Jager; son, Enzo Childers; parents, Sandra Perry-Mikolajczyk, Dan Mikolajczyk, and Bobby G. Childers Jr.; grandparents, Harvey “Cork” Perry, June Bashore, and Jennie Lee Childers; siblings, Brittany Stevens, Bobby Childers III, Brooklyn Smith, and Jenny King; nephews, Bryce Stevens and Gianni Childers; best friends, Tevin Steiger and Matt Jeffries; and beloved dogs, Monkey and Gizmo. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bobby Childers Sr., and Ken and Alice Mikolajczyk.

A visitation will be held at Freck Funeral Chapel, 1155 S Wynn Rd., in Oregon, Ohio, on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 12 noon. A funeral service will be held at 12 noon. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions are appreciated and may be made to the family.