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Matthew Straughter Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Straughter
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SFC Lisa L. Roberts
April 1, 2025
Dear Matthew,
Seventeen years have passed since you left us, yet your memory remains as vivid as ever. We often find ourselves reminiscing about the joyful moments we shared with you. Your laughter echoes in our hearts, especially when we think of your squeaking SAW as you walked to the DFAC or those unforgettable Tuesday Salsa nights with the guys. You are deeply missed and fondly remembered every day.
To the Family of SGT Matthew Straughter:
I want you to know that SGT Matthew Straughter continues to hold a special place in our hearts. His vibrant spirit and the joy he brought to our lives are cherished memories that we carry with us. Please find comfort in knowing that he is fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts are with you as we honor his memory together.
Harold MacFarland
December 19, 2017
Last Saturday I had the honor and privilege to place a wreath on Mathew's final resting place. Although we never met in life I had a "conversation" with him and thanked him for the sacrifice that he made for the USA. I hope somehow he heard me. I hope his family is doing as well as can be expected. I send them my sincerest wishes for contentment and happiness. SSGT Harold MacFarland USAF '65>'72
Harold Hurst
October 13, 2016
Just thinking of you brother. Miss our talks. You were a good friend. Rest easy. See you later.
August 12, 2015
Matt, you will always be missed. To the Straughter family, I'm so sorry for your loss.
THELMA STRAUGHTER
November 27, 2014
7 years now. Still waiting for you to co.e home. The kids are now 15, 9, and 8 years old beautiful children
Patti Wilmes
April 9, 2013
Our son, Robert Wilmes, served with Matthew. We recently visited Jefferson Barracks, with our son, where we were told of just how heroic Matthew was. We are truly grateful and blessed for the friendship our son had with Matthew. Matthew will always be in our family's thoughts and prayers. He will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
January 31, 2013
To the family and friends of Spc. Matthew F. Straughter:
It has truly been my honor to sign Matthew's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Matthew will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
Victoria
March 26, 2012
Wow, still cant believe you're gone! Miss talking to ya Matt.
Thelma Straughter
March 23, 2012
Here it is 4 years and your still in my heart until we meet again
Peggy Childers
February 3, 2012
January 31, 2012
To the family and friends of Spc. Matthew F. Straughter:
Always remembering Matthew. "Some gave all."
ms. nita humphreys
October 10, 2011
Matt you will be miss but never forgotten, my girls and i have fun memory of you.
steve bell
March 12, 2011
3 years later and i still see some of our fun times. You are and always will forever be missed.
Dan
February 26, 2011
You are still missed
Peggy Childers
January 31, 2011
To the family and friends of Spc. Matthew F. Straughter:
Please accept my remembrance of Matthew on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Renay Straughter
December 17, 2010
Soon to be going on the third year and I still weep for you if only I can have 24 hours with you.... Very hard to face the fact that I can't feel you touch but you are always in the kids and my heRT i GO DAILY SPEAKING to our children about you... I love and miss you dearly Matt
Des Colleran
June 10, 2010
Greetings:
Matthew was remembered in prayer on Memorial Day.... at our Catholic Parish in Aliso Viejo, CA.
I wish the entire family every blessing.
ayd
Peggy Childers
January 31, 2010
To the family and friends of Spc. Matthew F. Straughter:
Remembering Matthew on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Michael Schieffer
November 11, 2009
To the family of Mathew F. Straughter; Sorry for your loss. And may he rest in piece.
caleb cooley
October 14, 2009
hey brother sorry it took me so long to write this but here we are huh. i miss u man it ant the same with out you brother. momma V sorry its been so long since ive talked to you too and every body sorry.
sup
sierra garrison
August 23, 2009
I'm so sorry and I wish you the best of luck:-( !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Charles H. Miranda
August 14, 2009
=======================================
Follow The Rainbow To Heaven.
=======================================
A Soldier had die out on the
battlefield;
Broken hearts are weeping For
Them,
But take comfort of knowing
that God had sent Them a
rainbow from heaven;
The Souls of the Soldiers
have gone to there home
in heaven,
Our Loved One's has follow
God's lovely rainbow in the
sky;
All the way to the end of the
sky.
That leads all the way to the
other end of the Lord's
house in heaven,
So just keep on praying and
trust that God will send us
that same rainbow in the sky;
Where Our Loved One's are
waiting For You and For Me at
the end of the rainbow in
heaven.
=======================================
Do A Web Search On:
Charles H. Miranda -- Or.
charlesthepoet2003
===========================
Stephen Klein
July 28, 2009
I never had a chance to speak with you or your family after we parted ways from Arizona, but I want you to know you're my homie for life and we had something no one else could have in a friendship. R.I.P. Homie! Just know you and your family are in my thoughts Mrs. Straughter.
Sergeant Pierce
February 24, 2009
Straughter, I never told you this before but I really want to thank you for being my friend. You probably never realized how much it meant to me to have someone to talk to. No matter how bad a day you had you always made time for me. I'm sorry about that day when you came to my room and wanted me to go to chow with you. I didn't go because I was tired but you needed someone to talk to and I wasn't there for you. My greatest condolences go out to your family for such a sacrifice. I miss you Straughter and I'll never forget the price you paid for your country. I still where you k.i.a bracelet and I’ll be wearing it until the day I see you in heaven. I pray your at peace big BRO.
Love ya Pierce
Safely Home
Michael Iezzi
February 2, 2009
Father we entrust our brother Matthew to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Matthew in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathies.
Thinking and praying for you on the 1st anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends", John 15:13.
Peggy Childers
January 31, 2009
To the family of Spc. Matthew F. Straughter:
Matthew gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
T Starman
January 17, 2009
I offer my deepest condolences for your loss
Kenna Larra
December 2, 2008
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
We love our Soldiers! This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, God Bless You and we hope that your portrait is bringing you some peace!
Sincerely,
Kenna
Stephen Kimmel
November 11, 2008
Happy veterans day Matt. Damn bro I miss you. Time just hasn't taken the pain away. Things at home have changed but my love for you brother will never die. We had alot of good memories at joes and in the field. Miss you bro.
Jessicia Hair
November 3, 2008
matt i miss you
Robert Snow
October 14, 2008
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever. In reference to that we at Camp Hope in Farmington, Mo has a Framed Portrait of Matthew Straughter that we would like to give you. The portrait is done by workd renown Mike Regan. It's approx. 18x24 in size. The frame is about $300.00. We would like to give it to you Mrs. Vinson in memory of your fallen son. If you could please contact me.
Thank you andgod bless you.
Our prayers are with you.
LaKika Council
August 10, 2008
I love you Matt
July 31, 2008
Thank you Spc. Matthew F. Straughter, you will always be remembered for the sacrifices you made, and you will always be a hero in very many hearts. Rest in Peace.
July 8, 2008
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Straughter and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
July 8, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Straughter!
lana henry
May 31, 2008
seems like just yesterday i was tickling the crap out of him when hed misbehave when i used to babysit him. i watched him grow from a child to a man and will miss him very deeply. no matter how bad things would get hed never let it get him down i wish words could take away the pain caused by his passing he'll always be a hero in my book i miss ya kiddo
Surrounded by love for my fallen HERO
April 22, 2008
Our last Kiss
Thelma Straughter
April 22, 2008
The wife of Sgt Matthew F Straughter
Beverly M
March 24, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
March 23, 2008
March 23, 2008
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
March 13, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to the Straughter family in the loss of Matthew. I did not know Matthew, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Matthew you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
March 12, 2008
To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA
John Motty
March 7, 2008
Dear Family and Friends,
I would like to offer my sincerest condolences. I cannot begin to imagine the loss and pain all are going through. My nephew is a United States Marine and serving in Iraq. We all pray every day for him and his comrade’s safety every day. War is a horrible reality. I salute and I am proud of all of our troops and their bravery to protect our freedom and server their country with honor. Freedom is not free.
With deepest regrets and sympathy
shawnee (Austin, TX)
February 18, 2008
To the family of this brave hero, I offer my sincere condolences.
Sue Moriarty
February 14, 2008
Our heart felt condolences to you and your family. May God Bless you Matthew for your service and sacrifice for our country.
Our son was Matthew's room mate in Iraq. Our prayers are with you.
The Moriary Family.
Linda Cano
February 14, 2008
Straughter family, please accept my sincere sympathy at the loss of Matthew. May God bless and comfort you all. Matthew, thank you for your courage, honor and ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and security. Another American Hero has been taken from us. Rest in the arms of Jesus now.
Debbie Robinson
February 13, 2008
I never had the priveledge of meeting Matt but my daughter, Vikki, spoke of him often and I have seen pictures of him and his faimly and I will never forget them. But to his wife and children, your husband and Father gave the extreme sacrifice so that my family and others can feel safe in our own country.
God Bless,
Debbie and Ernie Robinson
February 13, 2008
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
I would also like to tell you about a website, http://groups.msn.com/SSPSoldierPor
traits/homepage,
where some wonderful people will make wood portraits of your fallen Hero for free for the immediate family. I became aware of this site when I wanted to do something special for Le Ron’s mother.
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett (Queens, NY)
Connie Becraft
February 11, 2008
May God be with Matt's family and friends. I am the mother of one of SSG Zeysing, Shane, who went to Iraq with Matt and helped train Matt in Ft. McCoy. Matt and Shane got close, and Shane is very saddened by his loss. I am so sorry.
7th grade Louisburg Midlde School
February 11, 2008
We care and share your sorrow and pride.
Shaun
February 11, 2008
My family and I send our sincere gratitude for your son's service and condolences for his loss. The bravery and sacrifice of American soldiers and their families is the very foundation of our country.
CH (LTC) Gary D. Gilmore
February 10, 2008
To the Straughter Family and Friends:
Please know that Matt's service was honored here in country at a moving memorial ceremony. We continue to feel the pain of his loss, as do you. He will remain a personal hero to each of us and the legacy of his service has helped to purchase the freedoms we enjoy each day.
I am immensely proud of our Missouri soldiers and all of us in the 1138th and the 35th EN BDE support you with our prayers.
Jim and Judy Voellinger
February 10, 2008
May God bless all of you on your loss. He was a true hero! May Jesus hold you all very close in His loving arms.
Sharon Turner
February 10, 2008
From our family to yours,
We would like to thank Spc.Straughter for his service and ultimate sacrifice to this great country, as well as send our deepest condolences to all the family, and friends for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers, my God bless each one of you.
Jane & Bob
February 10, 2008
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Carol Biggerstaff
February 10, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Matt will always be with you in spirit. He will live on through memories and no one can take those aways from you. It takes someone special to fight for their country. Those who died for their country, for every one of us, will never be forgotten.
February 9, 2008
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there I do not sleep
I am the thousand winds that Blow
I am the diamond glints on snow
I am the gentle autumns rain
I am the ripened grain
When you awaken in the mornings hush I am the swift uplifting rush.
Of the quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and forever cry.
I am not there I did not die.
May God bless your family and the entire armed forces protecting us all. Each and every one of our soldiers are proof that there are angels on earth
Sherry Parker
February 9, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. Be proud of Matthew for the greatest sacrafice he has given with honor. I cannot imagine the pain you will endure as you learn to live without your son, husband and father. Remember to be happy for all the lives Matthew touched and cherish the memories forever that he shared in your lives.
Gone but never forgotten.
Mother of SGT Joseph E. Pingel also serving in Iraq with the 1138th.
Monica Lightfoot
February 9, 2008
our deepest sympathies and thanks go out to you and your family. Our finest and bravest....
Maria Miller
February 8, 2008
From our family to yours, we would like to thank Spc Straughter for his service and ultimate sacrifice to this great country, as well as send our deepest condolences for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Proud mother of PFC Mykel F. Miller
KIA 06 Sept 07
Nikki Gibbar
February 8, 2008
My deepest sympathy to you and your family in your time of need. Just remember GOD will get you through this.
Family of SPC James Gibbar who is also in Iraq with 1138th
Ashley Jackson
February 8, 2008
I'm going to miss you bub we had a lot of great times working together in the guard. I'm really sorry to your family also. Well I will miss you and love you bubby.
Penny Wyatt
February 8, 2008
I extend my sympathy to you & your family for your loss. Your son gave the supreme sacrific to protect people like me. May fond memories substain you & yours at this time.
MG William Enyart
February 8, 2008
On behalf of the soldiers and airmen of the Illinois National Guard please accept our condolences on the loss of your loved one. He will be missed as a member of the National Guard family.
Mary Ann Spicer
February 8, 2008
As the mother of a solider, you have my deepest sympathy. Just be proud knowing he was doing the right thing.
susan murphy
February 8, 2008
I Thank Jesus for men and women like Matt who willingly serve their country and do it Proudly. My husband was prior Military, and would have served again if he could. I know what it is like to loose your husband, I know the lonliness you will face in the days to come. But if you put your trust in Christ, you will walk through this journey you have been given. And you will be stronger for it. All of us are only here for a short while, it's what we do with the time given that is important. Matt should be an inspiration to all who knew him. God Bless.
Nikki Masters
February 8, 2008
From the Family of Timothy Masters,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. It is hard for all of us to hear that news and how it has effected our families as well. My thoughts and prayers go out to you, your children, and your families.
James Daly
February 7, 2008
SGT. Straughter was and is in our minds forever. He was a good friend to have and a good soldier to work with. There is one phrase that describes him the best, Sepmer Fidelis, because he was always there when and where you needed him most. Gone but never forgotten we will always miss you.
anonomous
February 7, 2008
even though your gone, you're somehow still here,
you meant alot to us, words cannot describe how i feel,
the sound of your voice comforts me, somehow it works like a key, you will always be remembered through the good and the bad, Matthew Straughter, you are and will be forever in the hearts of your loved one's.
SGT Rey Espinoza 577th Engineer Battalion
February 7, 2008
No way man this is possible. It's been along time since our days in 29 Palms, I remember when you left, I remember the time we went to the river and had a blast. I even remember when I rear ended your moms truck in front of Burger King on base and she wasn't mad because it was me that did it. I hope that your family remembers me because I will always remember you Matt. All that skill you showed on the soccer field was spectacular. Rest In Love Brother. I wish we knew that we were so close to each other at Leonard Wood. You could have come and hung out. This really is a shock. America lost a real hero. Thank You for all you did for this great country of ours.
Ray and Glenda Perry
February 7, 2008
To all the family of Spc. Matthew Straughter, you are in our hearts and prayers and will be for some time. Our son served with Matthew and considered him a friend.
We know you will miss him terribly but keep the good memories in the forefront and go forward as he would want you to.
May you feel the Lord carrying you through the days to come.
We are the proud parents of Spc. Perry currently serving with the 1138th in Iraq.
Cheryl Eggers
February 7, 2008
My son is with the 1138th, was Matt's roommate for awhile and served as an usher at his memorial, he and the rest of our family have you in our thoughts and prayers. He IS a hero and now an angel with God. He will forever be in our thoughts and prayers as will his family. God Bless
Kate Whitener
February 7, 2008
Words cannot express how truely sorry I am for your loss. Matt was deployed and worked with my husband, SGT Whitener, at the armory. He has always had good stories filled with laughter about their days together. Matt will be missed by many. Please know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God watch over you and guide you through this difficult time.
Kathy Spicer
February 7, 2008
God bless your son for his service.
I pray for all the servicemen and women who are serving the country but especially so for the men and women in Iraq.
Carla
February 7, 2008
As the Mother of a soldier, I pray for the family and know Jesus will wrap Matt in his arms and welcome him in heaven. I did not know Matt, but we are family through the military. Gods speed.
Darcy Blades
February 7, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless. You'll always be in our thoughts.
Jeremy Zinn
February 7, 2008
To the family of SPC Straughter - my deepest condolences. Take heart in the knowledge that Matt touched many lives while he was here, and his memorial here at Camp Liberty was attended by more than I can count. He will be missed.
1LT Zinn
Executive Officer
1138th EN Sapper CO
Spc. Larry Kelley
February 7, 2008
Sgt. Straughter will missed by us all. May God be with his wife and children.
Laura Toman
February 7, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. I did not know Matthew personally, but my husband is currently serving in Iraq with the 1138th. Please know your husband and father of your children will forever be a hero in many peoples eyes. Share all your wonderful stories and memories with your children as they grow and let them know what a wonderful person he was and that he made the ultimate sacrifice for everyone back home. My heart is breaking for you and your family and you will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.
Daniel (Doc) Hale
February 7, 2008
I have no words to express my sorrow. Matt is a good friend of mine and I will miss him much. His easy smile and winning personality made the last several months all the more bearable. I am so very sorry, I promised Matt that I wouldn't let this happen, yet here we are. I do take some solace in the knowledge that Matt is on overwatch, caring for us all. My thoughts and prayers and those of my family are with my friend Matt and his family.
Krista Myers Cpt.John Myers (325th CSH- Iraq)
February 7, 2008
I just wanted to extend my heartfelt wishes for you and your family. My husband is deployed with a medical unit to Iraq currently. I do not understand your grief, but want to offer my prayers and thoughts. May God Bless you and yours.
Sonia Gove
February 7, 2008
To the Straughter Family,
As the wife of his commander, and a Soldier myself, it is with deepest sorrow that I write. Your loss cannot be replaced but I hope you find comfort in the fact that God will pull you through it - know that He will. Matt was a great Soldier, a great person.
kat
February 7, 2008
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Jan Eckhoff
February 6, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Specialist Matt Straughter. May God give you peace and cradle you in His care.
Family of Sgt Joshua W Eckhoff also with the 1138th in Iraq
Kerri Reeves
February 6, 2008
To the family of Matt Straughter:
My family and I wish to express our deepest condolences to you. I hope that Matthew's children know what a brave man he was and that he gave his life for his country, the ultimate sacrifice. It is such a shame that he had to leave us at such a young age. We are keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers during such a difficult time.
Family of SGT Jason Reeves
michelle helms
February 6, 2008
My family would like to give you our condolences for the loss of your husband. My husband Steve is in the 1138th also. You will be in our thoughts and prayers and he will be remembered as a hero in our hearts.
Michael Degonia
February 6, 2008
My deepest sympathies go out to the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of need. May god watch over and guide you to heal your hearts.
Gary W. Branham Sr.
February 6, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Marcia Wells
February 6, 2008
To the Straughter Family,
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Matthew is our hero forever.
Valorie
February 6, 2008
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
I know how you feel losing a "HERO",Becoming a "Gold Star" Mother myself on 25 March.. The sacrafice our sons and daughters are making on a daily basis should tell us all..These young HEROS knew full well what they were doing and did it proudly When you hug your loved ones tonight.... Remember... We also hugged ours and they were protecting you..We.. as Americans need to make the "Ultimate Sacrafice" by supporting all our military(HEROS)...the Proud Mom of SGT. Jason W. Swiger
5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne,Fort Bragg, N.C. KIA 3/25/007
Melaine Denton
February 6, 2008
As a mother of a soldier,I send you an your family, My Deepest Sympathy.My son SPC James Gibbar is also in the 1138th in Iraq.You an your family are in our prayers. GOD BLESS
Tim and Nina Reed
February 6, 2008
We were so sad to hear of the passing of your husband. Please remember you are never alone. God is with you today,tomorrow and always.
Our son TJ Reed is with the 1138th also. Your husband will be missed but will always be remembered as a hero.
Shirley Nickelson
February 6, 2008
We didn't know SPC Straughter, but our prayers and thoughts are with you. We should all be thankful for the men and women who are putting their lives on the line everyday so we in the United States can continue to enjoy the freedoms that we have
Matt
February 6, 2008
Louise C
February 6, 2008
Thelma, I want to send my deepest sympathies for your loss. I just found out this morning about Matt. I hope you'll tell Little Matt that he is in my thoughts and prayers too. Keep your chin up and be proud of your husband. I can't, never will forget his positive attitude at going to Iraq and serving his country.
Len Boyer
February 6, 2008
To the Straughter Family,
Please know that your son and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. May Matt's smile and good nature always light the memories you cherish!
Harold Hurst
February 6, 2008
I knew Matthew from the unit we served together. We would talk about life, just guy stuff in general. I do know he loved his children. I will always remember his friendly smile. I will miss him. God BLESS.
Amanda Helton SSG. Kevin Helton
February 6, 2008
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Here's little prayer for you. Be Strong in the Lord ,and in his mighty power. EPHESIANS 6:10
Sherry Holloway
February 6, 2008
I wish there was something i could do or say to make this easier on you. My heart goes out to you and your family. My husband is with the 1138th he told me the Matt was a great guy, and will be truly missed by all of them. You have been and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Kristina
February 6, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Spc. Straughter. Like so many others my finance'(Sgt. Allen) is in the 1138th and was very close to Matt. He told me that they will all remember him for they way he put a smile on all the guys faces and kept the mood happy! Matt is a true American hero to all of us!
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How to support Matthew's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Matthew Straughter's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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