Matthew B Edley

Matthew Bryan Edley, 42, of Mexico, NY, passed away peacefully, on November 6, 2025, with his sister, Stephanie, by his side.

Born on January 15, 1983, in Fulton NY, to Jean and Stephen Edley, Matthew was a unique and extraordinary soul who was deeply loved by all who knew him. He was born with a chromosomal abnormality caused by his father’s chemical exposure from Vietnam, which affected his speech and independent daily functioning. Despite these challenges, Matthew had no difficulty communicating his needs and lived with remarkable strength, mobility and spirit.

Affectionately known as “The Sour Patch Kid” at his group home, where he had lived since he was 18. Matthew was always ready with either a kiss or a headbutt! He enjoyed swimming, car and wagon rides, swinging, pushing toys, playing with shoelaces, and most of all, eating. He especially loved mom’s cooking, with her chocolate chip cookies being a particular favorite. Anyone hoping to win Matthews heart simply had to arrive with treats.

Matthew attended G. Ray Bodley High School in Fulton, NY where he was supported and cherished by teachers and student aides. After high school, he attended day programming at Oswego Industries, where countless staff members came to love and care for him. Though Matthew may not have realized it, he taught everyone around him profound lessons in perseverance, patience, acceptance, and unconditional love.

Matthew is survived by his father Stephen Edley; his sister, Stephanie Foulkes; and his beloved niece and nephew. He was predeceased by his mother, Jean Edley, who passed away just two months earlier. We take comfort in imagining Matthew giving mom sweet kisses and the two of them enjoying her cookies together again. We love you both.

A Celebration of Life will be held on December 21st from 11:30am-1:00pm at The Ancient Order of Hibernians, 22 Munn St Oswego NY 13126. Please bring a dish to pass and memories to share. Family, friends, staff, and colleagues are warmly invited to attend. Foster Funeral Home has care of arrangements.