Matthew Edward Smith

Matthew Edward Smith was born September 24, 1963 and died unexpectedly on July 14, 2020. He is survived by his brothers Marshall and Mason (Linda) and sister-in-law Debbie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marshall and Katherine Ann, and his brother, Mitchell. Matthew loved life and lived it well.  He graduated from the University of Southwestern Louisiana with a degree in Business and went on to work in the restaurant industry for much of his adult life.  He owned Matthew’s at West Branch Country Club in West Branch, MI and later decided to go back to school to become a nurse.  Matthew worked at Kmart while in school and brought his sense of humor and love of singing to the employees and patrons there where he would sing the “blue light special” for those in range to hear. When he received his nursing license, he began his encore career as a nurse in long-term care facilities. Matthew loved working with the patients and workers when he lived in the Soo. He moved back to Mississippi to help care for his Mom and began working at the Claiborne and later Provisions. Again, he brought his enthusiasm for life, love for people, and a servant’s heart to those with whom he came in contact.  Most recently he had begun working at the Blake in Daphne, AL.  Matthew wrote these words as he began his profession of service as a nurse, “I want to take care of someone with care, concern, and commitment….we all need to make things better for those who are experiencing something less fortunate than us.”  He followed that desire with all of his heart and effort. While at Lumberton High School, Matthew served as senior class president, was the drum major, played major roles in school musical productions, and graduated as an honor student. He treasured his days spent with high school friends and kept in touch with many of them through the years. He will be missed by family and friends and would wish everyone to live each day to the fullest, be kind, and love well. A Visitation will be held Thursday, July 23 at His Place Worship Center in Lumberton from 10 am to 1 pm. A private funeral service will take place at a later time. Due to the current virus outbreak and social distancing guidelines, limited access will be granted to the church sanctuary. We are hopeful to get everyone through that wishes to attend, so please allow yourself time if you plan to come in person. In addition, please make sure you sign the online registry here as well. Masks will be required. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Matthew and asks that you keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.