Donald Sampson “Sam” Walsh

December 5, 1949 — October 8, 2025

With quiet sadness and cherished memories in our hearts, we share the peaceful passage of Sam Walsh, on October 8, 2025, at home surrounded by his family. Loving husband, dedicated father, adored Pop and much-loved Uncle. Sam grew up in Albany and was one of eleven children born to the late Lloyd and Frances Walsh. Devoted husband of 51 years to Carol, caring father to his daughter Robyn, father-in-law to Andrew MacKay, Cape Traverse & Elly Walsh, Sofia, Bulgaria. The best “Pop” in the world to the greatest joys of his life: Thatcher, Everleigh, Elliott & Samantha. Reunited with his departed son, Matt, whose memory remained close to Sam’s heart each day.

Survived by his brothers and sisters: Eileen (Gabe) Keough, Summerside; Janet (Charles) McNally, Summerside and Brian (Debbie) Walsh, Mt. Tryon. Sister-in-law, Jean Walsh, Crapaud. Mother-in-law, Doris Foy, Tryon and brother & sister in laws: Gary & Kevin Foy, Heather & Eric Rogers and Kathy & Peter Norring. 

Predeceased by father-in-law Cecil Foy, brothers and sisters, Myrtle & Melvin Waddell, Jack Walsh, Allison ‘Hook’ Walsh, Audrey Smith, Doreen & Lloyd Waddell, and infant siblings Joyce, Beatrice & Douglas Walsh. 

From a young age, Sam developed a lifelong love of horses and the routine of working with them. Harness racing was his passion, and he enjoyed traveling to Maritime races and training his own colts and fillies. He was a true horseman who always found peace and purpose in their company. Season after season, you could find him having a tea with a few laughs at Summerside Raceway or tending to his horses at the little barn in Albany. He was the very definition of salt of the earth, dependable, kind and grounded in what truly mattered.

Whether he was putting up hay, cutting grass or tracking the familiar patterns of birds, he never ceased to be amazed by the cycle and beauty of nature. He often said the cycles of nature were what life was really all about; always reminding his children & grandchildren to stay humble, to notice the seasons and to find joy in the simple, steady pieces of everyday life. 

Sam loved his family and friends. He found happiness visiting friends, playing cards, walking through the door to Carol’s homemade bread and sharing stories from bygone days. Known for his quick wit and gift for storytelling, Sam could always find a tale to make a room smile. His many nieces and nephews adored their Uncle Sam and will remember the familiar warmth and humour he brought wherever he went. Sam wasn’t one to ever forget where he came from. He loved his former neighbours and cherished the lifelong friendships that grew from those early Albany years.

Sam and his family appreciated the many friends who visited, went for drives and shared time. Your presence, connection and kindness brought him great joy. 

Sam faced his illness with a quiet strength that reflected how he lived his life. He chose quality of life over time, meeting each stage of his illness with grace and determination. True to his independent nature, he made every decision on his own terms — right to the end. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Prince Edward Island MAiD team who supported Sam with deep care and respect. A final act of courage and dignity; and a true reflection of the way forward for end-of-life care.

At Sam’s request, there will be a private interment at Tryon United Church. In lieu of flowers, Sam requests that you to take a fall drive down a dirt road, enjoy a game of crib in his honour, or remember him the next time you hear a horse run.