Sam (Son) Thanh Tran

Sam (Son) T. Tran, of Norton, MA, passed away unexpectedly following an accident on July 17, 2025, at 12:12 PM at Boston Medical Center in Brockton, MA.

Born on March 23, 1967, in Nha Be, Saigon, Vietnam, Sam was the eldest child of Hoanh Van Tran and Hong Thi Can Nguyen. He is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, Mimi (Nhunguyen) Nu Phan, and their two taller-than-average children, Vicki Tran and Danny Tran. He was the loving brother of Jennifer Tran, Hung Tran, and John Tran.

Sam worked as an airplane mechanic for US Airways and American Airlines for nearly 26 years, dedicating himself to a career that reflected his precision, commitment, and work ethic.

He grew up in Nha Be during a time of great hardship, surrounded by a large and loving family. Despite the challenges of growing up during war, Sam was known as an exceptional student with a deep love for reading—a passion he held onto until his final days. As the eldest son, he often took on the responsibility of guiding his siblings and supporting his parents, including helping his mother run the family’s convenience store—sometimes begrudgingly, as it cut into his reading time. He loved being outdoors and never hesitated to greet every neighborhood dog with a gentle pat.

At the age of 12, Sam left Vietnam with his aunt and younger brother, Hung, on a boat in search of a better future in the United States. The journey was difficult—marked by rough seas, scarce food, and loss—but he made it through and arrived in Boston, MA. Life in the U.S. brought its own set of challenges as a refugee and immigrant. With the support of a sponsor, he attended school in Brockton, where he learned English, adapted to a new culture, and worked odd jobs to help support his family. He graduated from Brockton High School in 1986 and went on to study airplane maintenance at a technical school, continuing to work part-time to pay tuition and support loved ones.

After moving to Dorchester, he met Mimi, and together they built a life grounded in love, resilience, and shared goals. They eventually moved to Randolph, where they raised their two children, and later settled in Norton, MA.

Above all, Sam was a family man. He found joy in the everyday moments: driving his children to sports practices and school, supporting his wife in her nail salon business, doing yardwork, polishing the family cars, and carefully planning vacations (like looking up the closest Chinese buffet…). His love was quiet but boundless—he asked for little, giving everything in return. His greatest happiness came from seeing his family safe, secure, and content. Sometimes, even just seeing his loved ones eat a warm meal was enough to bring him peace.

Sam gave selflessly to ensure his family had the life he once dreamed of as a young boy in Vietnam. His legacy lives on in the strength, love, and gratitude of those he leaves behind.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, July 23rd, from 4:30 to 8:00 PM at Hurley Funeral Home, 134 S Main St, Randolph, MA 02368.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday, July 24th, from 8:00 to 9:30 AM at the same location. A religious service will follow at 11:15 AM at the Vietnam Buddhist Temple, 68 Bradeen St., Roslindale, MA 02131.

Traditional black attire is appropriate. Thank you for honoring Sam’s life with your presence!