Matthew Brady Burns

Matthew Brady Burns, age 43, of Bountiful, Utah, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, after a life full of “Matt Miracles” that enabled him to live independently despite his challenges.

Born in Billings, Montana, to Jerold and Karen Burns, Matt was diagnosed at birth with Noonan Syndrome, requiring significant cardiac and other medical procedures throughout his life. Hospitals were familiar territory.

A devoted sports fan, his allegiances grew with each family move: the Minnesota Twins in 1988, the Atlanta Braves in 1995, and lifelong loyalty to the Georgia Bulldogs. After arriving in Utah in 2006, he welcomed another red team—Go Utes! Sports created connections with others. Matt’s greatest gift was friendship; he formed deep, lifelong bonds with people from every chapter of his life.

A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Matt served a full two-year mission in Londrina, Brazil (2004 to 2006) alongside his parents. Known as the shortest yet most recognized and loved elder, he brought joy—especially at Christmas, when he delivered gifts across the mission in a Santa hat.

Matt was loyal and hardworking, with only two employers during his career. After high school in Lilburn, Georgia, he began at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, continuing there in Utah after his mission. Volunteering at Primary Children’s Hospital led to full-time employment in 2020.

He cherished time with family and friends, eagerly anticipating every social gathering, especially game nights with anyone who was willing.

Matt is survived by his parents, Jerold and Karen Burns; siblings, Brian (Emily), Jeff (Angie), and Meghan (Brandon); and a wide circle of cherished relatives and friends across the country and in Brazil.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Bountiful Temple Ridge Ward Chapel, 540 North 1200 East. Friends may visit with family on Saturday from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at the church. Interment at 2 p.m. at the Mountain View Cemetery, Eden.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Primary Children’s Hospital in Matt’s memory. Please dedicate the donation in Matt’s honor by following this link and designating the donation in honor of him to Primary Children’s Cardiology. https://give.primarychildrenshospital.org/give/395838/#!/donation/checkout

Matt’s heart may have had developmental challenges, but it overflowed with love that touched thousands and will be remembered forever.

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