Samuel James Serpico passed away on the evening of January 20, 2026 in the arms of his loving parents. Sammy was born just ten days earlier at 5:32am on Saturday, January 10, weighing 8lbs. 2oz. and measuring 22 inches.

From the very beginning, Sammy showed his spark. In every ultrasound image, he could be seen with his tiny fist raised near his face. We were told he was shy and hiding, but we now know it was the stance of a fighter. Even in the womb, he let us know he loved music—whenever his father sang, he would respond with many kicks.

After he was born, Sammy loved stretching with his mother and listening as his father read to him. Sammy carried pieces of both of us: his mother’s eyes and lips, and his father’s height and ears. Everyone who met him would say he was so perfect.

Shortly after his birth, Sammy became unresponsive. After extensive evaluation in the NICU, he was diagnosed with a severe case of nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH), a rare metabolic disorder that causes seizure activity, sleep-like symptoms, and impaired breathing. Tragically, there is no known treatment for this condition.

Sammy’s life was marked by his profound strength and courage. He endured more than most and was surrounded in love and prayers every step of the way. Today we know that Sammy doesn't have to fight anymore. Samuel James is now resting in the arms of Jesus.

Sammy is survived by his parents, Sara and James Serpico and countless family and friends.

Scheduled services are Monday, February 2nd.

Visitation will be from 10am-1pm at America's Keswick activity center gymnasium - 601 route 530, Whiting, NJ 08759

Funeral Services will be from 1pm-2pm at America's Keswick (also in the gym)

Burial will be private for the family

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the University of Colorado research facility to support their efforts in the fight to cure NKH:

University of Colorado Foundation

P.O. Box 17126

Denver, CO 80217-9155

Memo Line: NKH Crusaders Fund