Samantha Lewes: The Cause Of Death & Untold Story

19 May, 2025

What does it truly mean to be remembered, not for the roles one played, but for the life one lived? Samantha Lewes, though her time in the spotlight was relatively brief, left an enduring legacy, her story intertwined with the world of Hollywood and the enduring power of familial love.

The narrative surrounding Samantha Lewes, born Susan Jane Dillingham on November 29, 1952, in San Diego, California, often begins and ends with her association with Tom Hanks. Their paths crossed at California State University, Sacramento, where both were pursuing their dreams. This chance encounter blossomed into a relationship, culminating in marriage in 1978. Their union produced two children: Colin Hanks, born in 1977, and Elizabeth Ann Hanks, born in 1982. Lewes' life, however, was far more than just a footnote in the life of a Hollywood icon; it was a tapestry woven with threads of personal growth, artistic expression, and the quiet dignity of raising a family.

Lewes' contributions to the acting world, while not extensive, were marked by a distinct presence. She appeared in a few notable television shows, showcasing her talent and dedication to her craft. Shows like "Bosom Buddies" (1980) and "Mr. Success" provided platforms for her to demonstrate her acting capabilities. Her career was a testament to her passion for performance, albeit one that took a backseat to her personal commitments.

Category	Details
Full Name	Susan Jane Dillingham (Known as Samantha Lewes)
Date of Birth	November 29, 1952
Place of Birth	San Diego, California, USA
Date of Death	March 12, 2002
Place of Death	Sacramento, California, USA
Cause of Death	Bone Cancer
Known For	Actress, first wife of Tom Hanks, mother of Colin and Elizabeth Hanks
Notable Works	"Bosom Buddies" (1980), "Mr. Success"
Marital Status	Divorced (Tom Hanks)
Children	Colin Hanks, Elizabeth Ann Hanks
Height	5 feet 4 inches
Net Worth	Over $400,000 (at the time of her death)
Reference	IMDB

The couple's journey, however, wasn't without its challenges. In 1987, Tom Hanks and Samantha Lewes finalized their divorce, a decision that, according to Hanks himself, was difficult for both of them. The dissolution of their marriage marked a significant turning point in both their lives. Despite the personal upheaval, Lewes prioritized her children. She made a conscious decision to step away from the relentless glare of the public eye to dedicate herself to raising Colin and Elizabeth. This commitment to her family became a defining aspect of her life.

Tragically, Lewes's life was cut short on March 12, 2002, in Sacramento, California. She was 49 years old. The cause of her death was bone cancer, a disease she bravely fought before succumbing to its devastating effects. The news of her passing sent ripples of sadness throughout her family, friends, and those who admired her from afar. The announcement of her death sparked conversations and questions about her life, her influence, and the lasting impact she had on those around her.

The diagnosis of bone cancer came after a routine checkup, marking the beginning of a difficult period. The disease spread to her lungs and brain, leading to her untimely death. The final months of her life were a testament to her resilience and courage as she faced the illness with grace. It was a battle fought with quiet dignity, reflecting the strength of character that was a hallmark of her life.

The circumstances surrounding the end of her life, including her cause of death and the spread of the cancer, became a subject of public interest. This highlights the enduring impact she had on people and their continued curiosity about her story. The public's response reflects a recognition of the significant role she played in the lives of those closest to her, as well as her contributions to the art world.

Lewes was more than just an actress. She was a mother, a wife, and a woman who prioritized the well-being of her family above all else. Her lifes journey was a blend of artistic expression and personal devotion, reflecting her complex personality. After her split with Hanks, she chose to focus on raising her children and maintaining a life away from media scrutiny. Her dedication to her kids and her strong family values became her defining feature.

Lewes's story emphasizes the significance of protecting one's family from the harsh glare of the media. She and Hanks finalized their divorce, leading her to focus on her children. She was the mother of Colin Hanks and Elizabeth Hanks. Hanks has custody of his two children, and as a result, the two kids were hardly ever captured in public moments with their mother.

In the years after her divorce, she dedicated her time to raising her children. She wasn't a smoker, didn't drink alcohol, didn't have tattoos, and enjoyed drinking tea. She left an impact on people, including her family and friends.

Lewes and Hanks's journey as a married couple was marked by both joyful and difficult times. They met as students at Sacramento University and fell in love. The couple had a son, Colin Hanks, in 1977, and married soon after in 1978. Her role in Tom's formative years in Hollywood was substantial. The couple spent many years together before their relationship came to an end.

The actress was born on November 29, 1952, and took her last breath on March 12, 2002. The cause of her death was bone cancer. Her former husband, Tom, tried everything in his power to save Samantha, including hiring some of the best doctors in the world, but was unsuccessful.

Lewes' impact on those who knew her, her family, and her friends is a testament to her strong personality. She was known to many as the first wife of actor and filmmaker Tom Hanks.

Her net worth was over $400,000 at the time of her death. Her registered height was 5 feet 4 inches, and she weighed around 122 pounds. She had long brown hair and blue eyes.

The story of Samantha Lewes serves as a reminder that the measure of a person extends beyond professional achievements. It is a story of love, family, and the impact one can have through acts of kindness and genuine connections. Lewess life, though marked by both triumphs and tribulations, remains a poignant example of how to live a life of purpose, even when facing adversity.

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