WILMINGTON — Wieslawa Wanda Samplawski, affectionately known as Wanda, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 70. Born on March 19, 1955, in Elblag, Poland, Wanda’s life was a vibrant tapestry of love, care, and devotion to her family and community.
Wanda’s journey brought her to the United States in November of 1991, where she initially resided in Brooklyn, New York, before moving to Florida. A woman of deep faith, she was a devout member of the Catholic Church, finding solace and strength in her beliefs throughout her life’s journey.
Her professional life was spent as a homemaker at Davis Community assisted living and nursing home, where she dedicated herself to the care of residents by assisting with caregiving, cooking, and cleaning. Her heart was as vast as the ocean she loved, revealing itself in every act of kindness and care she extended to those around her.
Wanda’s interests were as colorful and varied as the clothes she wore. A true Pisces, she adored the water and could often be found near it, drawing peace from its depths. Her youthful spirit was evident in her love of climbing trees and her childlike wonder at the world. She was an avid knitter, an enthusiastic animal and plant lover who kept many pets, including large fish tanks. Wanda delighted in watching Polish soap operas and shopping online at Temu, sharing these joys with her family.
Preceded in death by her beloved parents, Zdzislaw and Barbara Szynkielewski, and her brothers Andrzej and Miroslaw Szynkielewski, Wanda leaves behind a legacy of love. She is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, Jerzy “George” Samplawski, their cherished daughter Olga “Olenka” Samplawski, and sons, Fabian Samplawski and his wife Zaneta, Greg Nicklas and his wife Evie, and Brady. Her grandchildren, Olivia, Charlie, Dylan, Atlas, Ralfie, Westin, and Lily, will forever remember her as a loving and generous grandmother. She also leaves behind her brother Tolek, her sister Inez “NaNa” and her husband William “Papa,” along with special cousins Ola and her son Daniel, and his wife Ania and their son Tymus, and their dog Imus; Bogusia and her daughter Eliza and her son Milan; and Ewa “Ewusia” and her husband Marek and their children Nina and Elenka.
Wanda was like a ray of sunshine to all who knew her. Her trusting nature and enormous heart were evident in the special treats she lovingly prepared for friends and family. Her greatest joy was taking care of others, especially her family, and she showered them with unconditional love and nurturing.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403, and where a funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 11 a.m., with interment to follow at Oakdale Cemetery, Wilmington, NC.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Adopt an ANGEL, honoring Wanda’s enduring love for animals and her commitment to caring for others.
Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
