Ka'Von Theal Matthews

Ka'Von Theal Matthews was born on October 25, 2002, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Karen Matthews and Damon Thomas. Ka'Von transitioned from his earthly home to his eternal home on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

Ka'Von accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Pentecost Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Rev. Lionel Davis Sr., where he was an active member of the Pentecost Youth Department. Ka'Von was a believer in God whose faith carried him through life's toughest challenges. Though small in stature, he was mighty in spirit; always determined, always resilient, and always full of heart.

After losing both of his biological parents at a young age, Ka'Von was lovingly raised by his aunt and legal guardian, Trishekka Matthews, who chose to love and care for him as her own. She ensured he grew up grounded in faith, bringing him to Sunday School and church so that he would know and trust God for himself.

Ka'Von attended Abramson Sci Academy High School; he left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Known for his sense of humor and infectious smile, Ka'Von could light up any room. He loved to make others laugh and had a gift for bringing joy even in difficult times. There was never a person he met who didn't remember him-people always remembered his big personality, his laughter, his "Craziness" and his heart that filled every space he entered.

He was deeply loved and cared for by many-family, friends and all who crossed his path. Ka'Von had a heart that welcomed everyone.

He leaves to cherish his memory his guardian and mom–Trishekka Matthews, and his dad through love–Cantrell Penny; his siblings–Kay'Trell Matthews, and Daimon, Dylon, and Dillon Thomas, and Trellion Penny (through love); his aunts–Elegra Matthews, and Dejah, Derika, and Erika Jackson; uncles–Rieal and Damien Matthews, Herbert Williams Sr., Justin Savage, and Uriah, Timothy, and Eric Jackson; his cousins–Makayla, Monzell, Ma'Khi, and Ma'Khya Diles, and Aidan Montegut who were raised alongside him and shared the bond of brothers and sister; his grandparents through love–Gilbert (Gizelle) and Gloria Jackson; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his biological parents–Karen Matthews and Damon Thomas; his grandmother–Evola Matthews; grandfather–Herbert Simms; great-grandmother–Enola (Augustus) Whitten; grandmother through love–Karen Petit; and uncle–Theal Matthews.

Though Ka'Von's time on earth was brief, his love, laughter, and light will continue to live on through all those who knew him. His story reminds us that family is built not only by blood, but by love, faith, and the bonds we choose to nurture.

Friends and family are invited to Ka'Von's memorial service on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at Pentecost Baptist Church, 1510 Harrison Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70122.
A celebration of life reception will follow immediately in the church fellowship hall.

Professional Arrangements are entrusted to Murray Henderson Funeral Home, 1209 Teche Street, New Orleans, LA 70114.