Samuel Shaer

McAllen, TX- Samuel "Sam" Berry Shaer, 20, on Thursday, May 11, 2023 surrendered the fight for peace that had alluded him most of his life.

Sam was born in Houston, TX on June 24, 2002, to Hassan Amin and Jessica Barker Shaer. He would soon meet his older brother and best friend, Benjamin. In addition to his strong bond with Ben, Sam prioritized being a doting big brother to Seth, Elijah, and Caleb. Sam's most precious moments would be spent loving, and being loved by, his brothers and his parents.

Sam was precocious academically, qualifying at the age of 16 to attend the Math and Science Academy at UTRGV where he was soon voted Class President. He continued his education, earning high marks, and was to receive his Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree. In his spare time, Sam taught and tutored students at Grace Christian Academy and devoted time to his many talents. He played the drums, wrote poetry, and appreciated art, including works by his favorite artist, Vincent Van Gogh, and by his favorite writer, Liu Cixin.

Sam was meek, observant, witty, sardonically humorous, possessing a rare, often painful sensitivity that made him, above all, kind. He would brighten when he spurred joy in others, like on Mother's Day when he would give his mom flowers made of Lego's saying to her, "these flowers will never die". Sam tried and ultimately failed to make sense of the world around him, but he did find meaning in simple expressions of love.

Sam will also be missed by a large extended family. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Benny Barker "Pappy". He is survived by his parents, Hassan and Jessica Shaer; brothers, Ben, Seth, Eli, and Caleb; maternal grandmother, Deborah Barker "Mammy"; paternal grandmother, Nancy Shaer "Nana"; paternal grandfather, his “Jidu” Amin Shaer; his "Tata", Fatten Shaer; aunts and uncles, Jason and Ali Birdwell, Ryan and Melissa Shaer; cousins, Jacob (Briana) Birdwell and their daughter, Lily; Hannah, Zeke (Madelynn), Luke, and Nathan Birdwell; Summer, Mabry, Layla, and Eden Shaer.

No one who knew Samuel will forget his smile and piercing gaze.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Mt. 5:3)