Leah Raye (Sampson) Bean

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Leah Raye Bean, who joined her Father in Heaven, June 21, 2025. Leah was born on September 13, 1974, and lived a life full of love, kindness, and dedication. She will be remembered for her unwavering spirit, her compassion for others, and the joy she brought to everyone around her.

Leah graduated from Troy High School in 1992 and pursued her passion for education at Whitworth College, where she earned her education degree. Mrs. Bean dedicated 25 years of her life to teaching at Priest River Elementary and Idaho Hill Elementary, touching the lives of countless students with her wisdom and care.

Leah Sampson and Russ Bean were cast together as a young couple in a high school play during her junior year in 1991. Four years later, they married on June 24, 1995, in Libby, Montana. On July 11, 2009, Leah and Russ welcomed their son William to the family. Leah was a loving, loyal, and dedicated wife and mother to whom she affectionally called, "my boys."

From a young age, Leah developed a strong relationship with her Lord Jesus Christ and believed it was her mission to share His love with everyone around her: family, friends, community, and especially students. Leah found much joy and fulfillment in teaching young children and sought opportunities to share her gifts with them. In addition to her work in public education, she helped other parents homeschool their children, taught Sunday school for Cedar Hills Church in Sandpoint, and volunteered for AWANA at the Community Church in Priest River.

Leah loved nature and felt that God's love could be most easily observed in its beauty.  Those closest to her surely have memories of being with Leah while watching sunsets, going for hikes, camping, kayaking, biking, stargazing, observing eclipses, or chasing aurora borealis. Leah's legacy will live on through the memories we cherish and the lives she touched. She is survived by her loving family and friends, who will miss her dearly.

An open memorial service for Leah will be held at the Priest River Community Church on July 12 at 1:00 PM.  If you would like to do something in honor of Leah, please consider making a donation in her name to one of the organizations she regularly supported: World Vision (https://mycause.worldvision.org/campaign/leahbean) or The Arbor Day Foundation (https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative-trees-for-others).  Messages of love and support can be sent to leahbean@outlook.com . If flowers are your choice please Call Floral Traditions 208-448-2611 we do not recommend the options bellow