Samuel A. Prokes

Samuel Ayres Prokes June 14th, 2026.

“I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I ask of him. So now I give him to the Lord.” 1 Samuel 27-28

Samuel Ayres Prokes, precious son of Tyler Anthony Prokes and Emma Ayres Prokes, was deeply loved from the very beginning. Born at 16 weeks and 4 days, Samuel spent 53 precious minutes on this earth, every one of them surrounded by love and cherished by his family.

Samuel’s life began in love, was carried in hope, and ended in the arms of the Lord who made him. When an infection threatened his mom’s life and doctors said there were no easy answers, Samuel was guided by God and did what no one expected: he came on his own, peacefully and alive. His arrival became a testimony of God’s grace and mercy, a reminder that miracles still happen even in life’s deepest heartbreaks. Through Samuel’s story, God protected his mom’s life and her ability to one day carry his future siblings — revealing that even the smallest lives can have the greatest purpose.

Samuel was treasured beyond measure by his parents, Emma and Tyler; his sweet dog, Poppy; his grandparents Cassie & Mark Prokes, Jim & Amanda Severson, and Steve & Susan Garrison; his great-grandparents; his aunts and uncles Olivia (AJ) Schmidt, Natalie Severson, Will Garrison, Anna Garrison, Nora & Kate Garrison, and Abby Prokes; along with many friends and family who prayed for him, dreamed of him, and loved him deeply before ever getting the chance to meet him.

Samuel was welcomed into heaven by his cousin, great-grandparents, and many loved animals who went before him. There is comfort in knowing he was greeted in the arms of Jesus and surrounded by love both on earth and in Heaven.

Though Samuel’s life was brief, it was full of purpose. He showed his family that a life does not have to be long to be meaningful and that even the smallest footprints can leave the biggest mark. May his story bring people to Christ and change lives for generations to come. Samuel’s legacy will continue through the love he created, the faith he strengthened, and the hope he leaves for the future. We love you sweet boy.