Samantha “Sam” Parker Wengert, born in 1965, passed away unexpectedly on May 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, laughter, and quiet strength that touched all who knew her.

Sam was born and raised in Pasadena, Maryland, where she graduated from Northeast High School. She was preceded in death by her father, Charles William Parker and stepmother, Bonnie Abend. She is also preceded in death by her stepson, Thomas Dale Nelson.

Sam is survived by her husband, Thomas “Tommy” Nelson, and her stepdaughter, Shannon Nelson, and granddaughter, Rylee. Sam is also survived by her mother, Catherine Parker LaMar and stepfather Robert Miller. Sam has two surviving sisters. Her older sister Tracy White and husband Arland White, niece Melissa Graham and her husband Chris Graham and niece Jaclyn Riser and her husband Aaron. Sam’s younger sister Penelope Reisler and husband Tom Riesler, nephew William Hughes and niece Annie Parker.

Sam built a successful career in executive management with Global Payments, where she was respected for her leadership, professionalism, and dedication. Yet beyond her professional accomplishments, Sam will be remembered most for her generous heart, vibrant spirit, and deep love for family and friends.

Together, Sam and her husband, Tommy Nelson, fulfilled a lifelong dream by retiring to the mountains of Franklin, North Carolina. There, surrounded by the beauty she cherished, Sam found peace in mountain life which they shared with Sam’s beloved cats.

A woman of faith, Sam attended several churches in Franklin when her health allowed, finding comfort and community in worship and fellowship. Sam had a joyful personality and a love for life’s colorful pleasures. She especially loved the color purple, which reflected her bright and spirited nature, and she never lost her appreciation for fast cars and the thrill of the open road. Sam was an avid, dedicated fan of the Baltimore Ravens.

Those who knew Sam knew a woman of intelligence, resilience, and warmth. She offered kindness freely and loved deeply. Her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her, especially her devoted husband, Tommy and her sisters. Though her earthly journey has ended, Sam’s spirit will live on in the memories shared by family, friends, neighbors, and all whose lives were made brighter by her presence.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” — Matthew 5:8 NRSVUE