Matthew Richard Shumway

GAINSVILLE, Fla. -- Matthew Richard Shumway, 27, passed away at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 20, 2011, at Shands Medical Center in Gainesville, Fla., after a struggle against the effects of a massive stroke he suffered on July 11, 2011. His brothers and parents were at his bedside.

Matthew was born in South Weymouth, Mass., on March 8, 1984, the son of Larry and Terry (Mazzola) Shumway.

Matthew attended public schools in Duxbury, Mass., and graduated from Tampa Catholic High School in Tampa, Fla. He attended the University of Florida in Gainesville and received a bachelor of arts degree in public relations in 2008.

He held positions in public information and community relations for public health and charitable organizations, and served as promotions director for several entertainment businesses in central Florida.

Of all that Matthew enjoyed, the company of friends and family was that which he cherished most. Matthew had kind words for all who knew him, and those who knew him cherished his friendship.

He had the prayers and support from more than 400 friends, particularly through his recent struggle, who are thankful for his kindness and friendship. The family is most grateful for all of the prayers and support to us during this trying time.

He is survived by his parents, Larry and Terry Shumway, of Bulverde, Texas; and brothers David of Needham, Mass., Jeffrey and his wife, Stephanie, of Boulder Creek, Calif., Peter and his wife, Kristin, of Winthrop, Maine, and Christopher and his wife, Mary, of Rutland, Mass.; and niece Abigail and nephews Tyler, Andrew and Benjamin. He is the grandson of the late Walter and Aggie Shumway, and Russell and Kay Mazzola. He also is survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins.

A Mass of Christian burial will be offered at 11 a.m. Friday, July 29 at St. Anne's Catholic Church, 84 Main St., Bradley, Maine, followed by a graveside ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery in Bradley.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make memorial contributions to the NeuroIntensive Care Unit, Shands Hospital, P.O. Box 100386, Gainesville, FL 32610.

Arrangements are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin St., Winthrop, where condolences to the family may be sent to www.khrfuneralhomes.com.