Jeffrey Allen Matter, known affectionately to friends and family as Jeff, was a man whose laughter and love knew no bounds. Born on April 30, 1991, in
Winter Park, Florida, Jeff's journey through life was one marked by joy, adventure, and the kind of generosity that touched the hearts of all who knew him. On December 5, 2025, at the age of 34, Jeff passed away in
Austin, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and cherished memories.
Jeff was the beloved son of Dawn Goins and Jeffrey Matter, and the protective, fun-loving brother to Sarah and Ashley Matter. He took every opportunity to show his love to his family through his actions and his ever-present humor. Jeff's education culminated in earning his GED, a testament to his determination and self-discipline.
Professionally, Jeff was an incredibly skilled tree climber who turned his passion into his own business in Florida. His entrepreneurial spirit and expertise allowed him to do what he always wanted, work for himself, before he decided to embark on a new chapter in
Austin, Texas. There, he joined his best friend Kenny, not just in work but in life, as he became a cherished part of Kenny's family.
Jeff's interests were as diverse as they were engaging. He was an avid fisherman, finding peace and solitude by the water. He loved to climb, telling Erica, Kenny's wife, it was in his veins. Jeff had a special bond with his Mustang, working on it with the meticulousness of a craftsman, always saying he would have loved to be a mechanic. He also loved puzzles - an activity his friends say matched his personality because it provided him with satisfaction upon their completion.
Perhaps one of Jeff's most treasured roles was that of Godfather to Ellianna, the baby daughter of his best friends, Kenny and Erica. He embraced this role with all of his love and was so proud to be Ellianna's Godfather, often wearing shirts that said "Padrino" on it (Spanish for Godfather).
Those who knew Jeff would describe him as funny, loving, unique, outgoing, and incredibly handy. His jokes and humor could light up any room, and his caring nature made him a friend to many. Jeff's ability to fix not just things, but also bad days, with his laughter and love, was a rare gift that made him truly special.
As we remember Jeff, we celebrate a life lived with love and kindness. His memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have felt the warmth of his smile and the strength of his embrace. Jeff's story is not one of sorrow, but a beautiful narrative of a life that, though too short, was lived to the fullest and left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Jeff Matter will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever remain a guiding light for his family and friends.