Samuel Massalone
Alton |
On November 26, Samuel Evan Massalone conceded his battle with Schizophrenia after an arduous and courageous journey.
He was born on June 3, 1992, to Philip Massalone and Karen (Johnson) Roberts. They both survive. Also surviving are his beloved sisters, Emma Massalone, Anna Massalone and Ella Walters; his grandmother, Carole Massalone; aunts and uncles, Barb (Steve) Varble, Mark (Dianely) Massalone and Mike Massalone, all of Alton; his grandparents, Ralph and Agnes Johnson of Jacksonville, IL; aunts and uncles, Nancy (Steve) Decker, Everett (LeAnn) Johnson of Franklin, IL, Patricia (Mike) Elliott, Darryl (Stacy Shade) Johnson, Rebecca (Mark Dyer) Johnson-Dyer, and Christopher (Mindi) Johnson, all of Jacksonville, IL; his stepfather, Mike Roberts and many cousins and friends not forgotten. He also leaves behind Summer, his dog and faithful companion.
Sam was loving, compassionate, gentle and especially protective of his sisters. He cherished his memories with friends and family. Sam was in awe of nature and found peace going for walks in wooded areas and solace being near the river. He treasured long drives with his parents and sisters (and his hot mocha!). He loved music, movies, art, basketball and comedy. He accepted his illness with dignity, humility, sacrifice and prayer. He fought to survive it with more strength than we will ever know and carried a poem entitled “Don’t Quit” (by Edgar Guest).
His grandfather, Sam Massalone and his uncle, Evan Johnson precede him in death.
A prayer service will be Monday, November 30, at 4:00 p.m. at Gent Funeral Home with a visitation following until 7:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, December 1, at St. Mary’s Church in Alton at 10:00 a.m., concelebrated by Father Jim Walther and Father Jim Brobst. Memorials may be made to The Nature Institute or The Treehouse Wildlife Center.
Gent Funeral Home
