Sam Piazza, a beloved son and a student at Sewanee: The University of the South, tragically passed away at the age of 22. His untimely death has left a void in the hearts of his family and friends who remember him for his infectious smile.
On Monday, November 6, 2023, Sam’s parents penned an open letter to the Sewanee community, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding their son’s passing and dispelling misconceptions about the cause of his death. They emphasized that Sam did not overdose on cocaine and shared the painful truth of his demise.
Sam’s educational journey began at Catholic High School for Boys, where he graduated in 2018. During his four years at the school, he actively participated in the tennis team and the Broadcast/Journalism team. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, where he pursued a degree in economics. Sam became a proud member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity, cherishing the friendships he formed within the group.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Sam exhibited a strong commitment to his faith and community. He served as an acolyte at the Trinity Episcopal Cathedral for five remarkable years, displaying unwavering dedication and service.
Sam’s passion for exploration was evident in his love for travel, which began with a memorable trip to Italy at the age of 10. This experience ignited a lifelong curiosity for discovering new places, culminating in journeys to Paris and Costa Rica. These adventures further fueled his desire for global exploration.
Sam is survived by his parents, Chris and Melody Piazza of Little Rock, his brothers, Jason and Alex, and an extended family that held a special place in his heart. He is remembered by his beloved girlfriend, Avery, whom he adored from the moment they met.
His passing was preceded by his paternal grandparents, Sam and Francis Piazza of Little Rock, his maternal grandparents, Bob and Gloria Harris of Hamburg, and his uncle, David Piazza of Little Rock.
Steve Straessle shared on facebook, “Beautiful tribute and important letter from Melody and Chris Piazza. I hope parents everywhere read it. And, I really hope those parents share it with their high school and college aged kids.”
Sam’s parents, Chris and Melody Piazza, shared their heartfelt memories and the journey that led to their son’s tragic end. They emphasized the need for students to be aware of the potential consequences of recreational drug use and encouraged everyone to learn CPR, as it can be a lifeline in critical situations.
In their poignant letter, Chris and Melody Piazza sought to honor their son’s memory and ensure that others understand the gravity of the choices they make. Sam’s story serves as a poignant reminder that seemingly harmless decisions can have life-altering consequences.
This heartfelt tribute to Sam Piazza encourages all bright and gifted students to exercise caution and recognize the life-changing impact of their actions. Sam’s parents champion Sewanee’s Good Samaritan Campaign and urge students to be prepared to act as Sewanee angels, ready to provide essential assistance when needed. They hope that Sam’s story will illuminate the dangers of recreational drug use and inspire others to make informed choices.
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