Dr. Matthew P. Parvis

Dr. Matthew P. Parvis, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, in Chesapeake, Virginia, after a valiant battle with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). He was born on March 1, 1954, in Washington, DC, to Noreen Sweeney Chase and Herbert Pritchard. Matthew's life spanned over 71 remarkable years, filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to helping others.

Matthew was a devoted family man, survived by his cherished wife, Susan L. Parvis, whom he married on May 25, 2013, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Their twelve years together were a testament to their love and partnership. He is also survived by his daughter, Shannon M. Boyle; his granddaughter, Emmeline R. Boyle; his mother, Noreen Sweeney-Chase; step-daughter, Alyssa L. Stephenson-Pawluk; and his sons, Ryan P. Parvis and Daniel P. Parvis, along with his daughter, Lora E. Parvis-Lyon. He is preceded in death by his father, Herbert Pritchard.

Matthew's educational journey was as vibrant as his personality. He attended San Francisco State University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Radio and Television. He began his career as a DJ in Lake Tahoe for KTHO radio, before transitioning to serve as an event coordinator for renowned figures like Stephen Covey and Howard Ruff. His passion for understanding human relationships led him to Brigham Young University, where he obtained both his Master's and Doctorate degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy. This foundation allowed him to shape countless lives through his work as a therapist for over 35 years.

Matthew was dedicated to supporting military personnel while working at The Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, where he was honored with the Master Clinician Award. Later, he transitioned to private practice and resident supervision before his retirement, but his impact on those he treated will be felt for generations to come. He was also a Fellow Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).

Beyond his professional achievements, Matthew was a man of many passions and interests. He was an ardent supporter of the Detroit Tigers and the Green Bay Packers, proudly holding a share in the latter. His encyclopedic knowledge of music from the 1960s and 1970s made him a walking jukebox, effortlessly linking conversations to song lyrics. Matthew could recite the entire screenplays of cultural classics such as "The Princess Bride" and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." His philosophical musings were often enriched by quotes from Gibran, Rumi, Thoreau, and Richard Bach. Though he leaned towards Buddhism and meditation, he also had a soft spot for action-packed films like "Die Hard" and novels by Clive Cussler, Isaac Asimov, and Robert Heinlein.

Matthew was more than just a therapist; he was a storyteller, a philosopher, and a loving presence in the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. His warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on friends, family, and colleagues alike.

A celebration of Matthew's life will be held at a date and time to be determined, where friends and family can come together to honor his legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation: [Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Donations: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/pulfibfou.

Matthew P. Parvis will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Rest in peace, dear Matthew. Your life was a gift to us all.