Heather Marie Mattox

Heather Marie Mattox 

June 4, 1991 – March 25, 2026

Heather Marie Mattox, 34, of Emporia, Kansas, passed away on March 25, 2026, in Emporia. Her passing was sudden and deeply heartbreaking, leaving a space that cannot be filled but will always be honored.

Heather was born on June 4, 1991, in McCook, Nebraska. She moved to Emporia in 1998, where she built her life, her relationships, and her impact on the people around her.

Heather was a devoted paraprofessional and worked closely with children, giving her time, patience, and heart to those who needed it most. She had a natural way of making others feel safe, understood, and valued—especially the kids she served. Her work wasn’t just a job; it was an extension of who she was.

She was a faithful member of Life Church, where her connection to her community and her faith continued to grow. Heather also gave her time through volunteer work with Camp Cumcito and the City Union Mission, reflecting her deep compassion and desire to show up for others in meaningful ways.

Heather is survived by her parents, Mary Maris of Emporia, Kansas, and Jerry Mattox of Olathe, Kansas, and her sisters, Danielle Maris-Allen of Emporia, Kansas, and Chelsey Mattox of Raymore, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ervin & Sandra Maris and Robert & Marie Weaver; Brother Michael Mattox; Uncle Dan and Aunt Deb Petty; Uncle Todd Baker; Uncle Cliff Riener; cousin Dawn Salyer; cousin Amber Hernandez; and family member David Skrabach.

Heather will be remembered for her gentle strength, her kind heart, and the quiet but powerful way she showed up in people’s lives. She didn’t need to be loud to be impactful—her presence alone made people feel less alone in the world.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on April 11, 2026, at Life Church in Emporia, Kansas, with Pastor Tony Lantz officiating.

In honoring Heather’s life, her family encourages others to love deeply, show up for one another, and never underestimate the impact of simply being there—because that is exactly how Heather lived.