Samantha Lucille Turner, 22, of 26739 Gould's Corners Road, Evans Mills passed September 23, 2016 following a long battle with drug addiction.

She was born on January 24, 1994 in Honolulu, Hawaii, the daughter of Richard M. and Linda L. (Frank) Turner.

Samantha attended Indian River High School where she was also a football cheerleader and worked at Best Buy in Watertown as a cashier. She volunteered at the SPCA as a kitty cuddler, as well as enjoyed horseback riding, writing and swimming.

Following school Samantha battled drug addiction and spent several years in and out of treatment and rehabilitation centers throughout the United States. During that time she became a counselor at Best Drug Rehabilitation Center in Manistee, Michigan. Her goal was to overcome this disease, accomplish her dreams of becoming successful in life, and to become an inspiration for others.

Among her survivors are her parents, Richard M. and Linda L. Turner, Evans Mills; a brother, Alexander M. Turner, Utica; her maternal grandparents, Gerald and Lucille Frank, Calcium; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Calling hours will be 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 27 at the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, Watertown.

A prayer service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 28 at the funeral home.  A Funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Black River with Father Garvin Demaris officiating.

Burial will take place in Sanford Corners Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Donations may be made to the Children's Miracle Network 830 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartandbrucefh.com

"JUST FOR TODAY"…I will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful. For as I give to the world, the world will give to me. "JUST FOR TODAY"…