Samuel “Sam” Perkins of Scotia, New York, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026, following a courageous and inspiring battle with leukemia. His death has left the Scotia-Glenville community heartbroken, as family, friends, teammates, teachers, and neighbors remember a remarkable young man whose strength, resilience, and unwavering determination inspired countless people throughout New York’s Capital Region.
Sam was far more than a talented student-athlete. He became a symbol of hope after being diagnosed with leukemia in the summer of 2023 at just 16 years old. Instead of allowing his illness to define him, he faced every challenge with extraordinary courage, inspiring an entire community to rally behind him through the now well-known #PerkStrong movement.
Who Was Samuel “Sam” Perkins?
Sam Perkins was a recent graduate of Scotia-Glenville High School in Scotia, New York, where he was admired for his positive attitude, perseverance, and love of football. His teammates, coaches, classmates, and teachers knew him as someone who never gave up, regardless of the obstacles placed before him.
Following his leukemia diagnosis, Sam endured months of chemotherapy, medical treatments, rehabilitation, and countless hospital visits. Throughout every stage of his journey, he remained determined to return to the football field wearing the Scotia-Glenville Tartans jersey once again.
His resilience inspired not only those closest to him but also countless people across the Capital Region who followed his recovery.
Sam Perkins’ Inspiring Return to Football
One of the most unforgettable moments in Sam’s journey came when he successfully returned to school after missing significant time during treatment. Determined not to fall behind, he completed an entire year’s worth of coursework, graduated alongside his classmates, and fulfilled his dream of returning to the football field.
His first home game back became an emotional milestone for the entire community.
Surrounded by cheering classmates and supporters, Sam proudly wore his Tartans jersey again and even scored a touchdown, creating one of the most memorable moments in recent Scotia-Glenville football history.
Reflecting on that experience, Sam described the moment as “electrifying,” saying it was one of the happiest experiences of his life.
The #PerkStrong Movement United an Entire Community
Throughout Sam’s battle, the hashtag #PerkStrong became much more than a slogan.
Students, teachers, coaches, local residents, friends, and even strangers embraced the movement, offering encouragement through fundraisers, community events, prayers, social media messages, and countless acts of kindness.
His courage reminded everyone that hope could exist even during life’s darkest moments.
Scotia-Glenville Community Announces Sam Perkins’ Death
The heartbreaking news of Sam’s passing was shared by the Scotia-Glenville High School PTSA, which announced that he had passed away early Monday morning following his long battle with leukemia.
In its statement, the organization described Sam as “a friend to many” whose loss would be deeply felt throughout the community.
The Perkins family requested privacy as they spend time together remembering Sam and supporting one another. They also respectfully asked that community members refrain from visits, phone calls, messages, or meal deliveries unless specifically invited.
Football Program Pays Emotional Tribute
The Scotia-Glenville Tartans Football Program also honored Sam with an emotional message remembering his courage and perseverance.
The program praised his incredible strength, toughness, positive outlook, and determination throughout his illness while extending heartfelt condolences to the Perkins family.
The tribute concluded simply but powerfully:
“Rest in Peace Sam. Perk 17.”
Remembering Sam Perkins’ Legacy
Although leukemia ultimately claimed Sam’s life, it never defeated his spirit.
His determination to continue living fully despite unimaginable adversity became an inspiration to teammates, classmates, families, educators, healthcare workers, and complete strangers who followed his remarkable journey.
Sam demonstrated that courage is measured not by the absence of hardship but by the willingness to continue fighting through it.
His story will continue inspiring future generations of Scotia-Glenville students who will remember both the athlete and the young man whose unwavering hope united an entire community.
Samuel Perkins Obituary
Samuel “Sam” Perkins will be remembered for his kindness, resilience, infectious optimism, and extraordinary determination in the face of leukemia. Whether on the football field, in the classroom, or throughout his medical journey, Sam inspired everyone around him through his courage and unwavering spirit.
He leaves behind his loving parents, brothers, extended family, teammates, coaches, classmates, teachers, and countless friends who supported him throughout his courageous battle. His passing represents an immeasurable loss for the Scotia-Glenville community, yet his legacy of hope, perseverance, and compassion will continue to inspire for years to come.
The Perkins family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they grieve together and celebrate Sam’s remarkable life.
His memory will forever live on through every member of the #PerkStrong community.
FAQs
Who was Samuel Perkins of Scotia, New York?
Samuel “Sam” Perkins was a recent graduate of Scotia-Glenville High School and a beloved football player who inspired his community during his courageous battle with leukemia.
When did Sam Perkins die?
Sam Perkins passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026, after battling leukemia.
What was the #PerkStrong movement?
#PerkStrong was a community-wide campaign that united classmates, teammates, educators, friends, and residents in support of Sam throughout his fight against leukemia, symbolizing hope, courage, and perseverance.