John Matthew Smith

1/13/2025

John "Matt" Smith

John Matthew Smith, known to all as Matt aged 34, passed away on January 5, 2025, in Fort Worth, TX. Born on April 4, 1990, to parents John Smith and LeAnn Stickland.

Funeral Service to honor Matt’s life will take place at 11:00am Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Shepherd's Valley Cowboy Church, located at 8901 US 67, Alvarado, TX 76009. The family invites all who knew Matt to join in celebrating his memory. Burial will take place following service at Rose Hill Cemetery, Cleburne, Texas.

Matt faced profound struggles with mental illness and addiction, which made his journey incredibly challenging. But to those who truly knew him, these hardships never overshadowed the beautiful person he was. Deep down, in the midst of all his struggles, was the most beautiful heart filled with radiant love. Matt was a gentle soul who always saw the good in people. He believed everyone deserved love and grace. His kindness and compassion left an indelible mark. Matt’s life was anchored by his deep love for the Lord and his unwavering faith. Even in his most difficult moments, his faith never wavered, and he found strength in his connection to God. Matt was always deeply concerned about the happiness and safety of his loved ones. With his radiant smile, sharp wit, and warm heart, he brought light and joy to those around him.

Though his path was difficult, we find comfort in knowing that Matt is now healed. There is no more pain, no more struggle—he is finally at peace and reunited with his mom in heaven, surrounded by love and the presence of the Lord.

Rest in peace, Matthew. You are deeply loved and will forever be missed, but we take solace in knowing you are free at last.

He is survived by his father, John Albert Smith; sister, Mary Smith Reinford; brothers, Travis Lee Wright and Nathaniel Allen Wright; his children, Candance O'Brien, Gavin Smith, and Genesis Smith; and his nieces and nephew, Paisley LeAnn Smith, Amari Janelle Young, and Owen Grey Reinford. Matt was preceded in death by his mother, LeAnn Stickland.

6 Comments

Rebecca Henton

1/14/2025 08:55:43 am

I remember him as the sweetest, joy filled beautiful little boy. He is in the arms of Jesus and is safe.
Prayers of peace for his family until we all meet in eternity. Much love

Amanda Garza

1/14/2025 05:36:28 pm

I knew you in high school, mostly in passing but you were always very kind. May you rest in peace and find the happiness you were meant to always find.

Susan Schoeplein Mattox

1/14/2025 07:43:10 pm

Matt was always kind to me when I would talk to him during the time his mom and I went fishing.I noticed the love Interaction with all of you.

Benjamin Carpenter

1/14/2025 07:53:45 pm

Matthew was my best friend from elementary through middle school, and a part of my family through that time. We simply did everything together.
There was an exceptional goodness in him, and his hilarious nature was unique and unforgettable. I loved him like a brother and I always will.

Bob Mathieu link

1/14/2025 08:20:27 pm

Great young man always willing to help when asked. He will be missed. Rest in peace Matt, you sure do deserve it.

Colten Cantrell

1/17/2025 01:49:10 pm

Matt, this world simply didn't deserve your spirit, you remain stuck in my heart for eternity. You were there right at my back when I faced some of the worst times in my life in HS and for the years after. I know you'd be so happy for how my life turned around. I just wish I had kept up with you, and maybe we'd have more great memories. Fly high brother, you're missed but never forgotten. Rest easy playa.

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