Mateo "Mattie" Banegas

Mateo "Mattie" Banegas, 18, of Smyrna, Delaware, passed away on July 22, 2025. Born on December 2, 2006, in Christiana, Delaware, Mateo brought light and joy to those around him from the very beginning.
A recent graduate of William Penn High School and a former student at Smyrna High School, Mateo was known for his vibrant personality and deep sense of loyalty. He had recently enlisted in the Army National Guard, a testament to his dedication and desire to serve.
Mateo received his strength from God and had a wide range of passions that reflected his energetic spirit and creative soul. He loved playing basketball, skateboarding through the streets with friends, immersing himself in video games, and expressing himself through music and art. His keen eye for fashion and sneakers made him stand out-he had a unique style that was all his own.
He will be deeply missed by his loving parents, Yimy and Kimberley Banegas, his stepmother Yerika Banegas, his stepfather Joseph Brown, his sisters Kiara Banegas and Madix Brown, his brother Matias Banegas, and his grandmothers Peggie Ruark and Maria Banegas. Mateo also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins who cherished him dearly.
Mateo's fun-loving nature, caring heart, and unwavering loyalty touched everyone he met. Though his time with us was far too short, the love he gave will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort and strength to all who mourn his loss.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 noon until 2 pm on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 2 pm. Interment will be held privately.
There will be a place to hang pictures. We would love for you to bring picture memories, notes, or stories of Mateo, to add to the board.