Matthew Wayne Jackson

Matthew Wayne Jackson, born January 20, 1971, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Burnsville on August 21, 2025, at the age of 54. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend whose love for life touched all who knew him. He is preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Farrell and Ruth Garland; uncles, Jack, Don, Ernest "Mousey" and Dave; and paternal grandparents, Sara and William Jackson.

Matthew was employed with Altec Industries, where he was respected by his colleagues and known for his commitment and hardworking spirit. Outside of work he was an enthusiastic fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the New York Yankees. He was passionate about car shows and took great pleasure in playing the guitar. Music held a special place in his heart, particularly Willie Nelson. Willie's song, "Angels Flying Too Close to the Ground" was a direct reflection of his love for his wife Sommer. His humor was infectious, and he was famous among family and friends for his collection of Hey Dude shoes, including a pair of steel-toed Hey Dudes for work.

Matthew relished the simple joys in life such as enjoying cigars. A master of the grill he found happiness in cooking for those he loved. Saturdays were sacred for Matthew and his cherished wife Sommer. Regardless of the activity, whether it be shopping trips to Hobby Lobby (which he was never enthusiastic about) or quiet moments spent together, he embraced every moment they shared. Matthew loved spending time with his daughters Madgesta and Magdalene. Matt and Madgesta bonded through their love of music and he and Magdalene bonded through their sense of humor and quick wit. Magdalene never hesitated to tell everyone that her dad is her best friend and Matt wore that title with great pride. Above all his granddaughter, Alice Evangeline "Squeaker" Rose, was the light of his life; his love for her was boundless.

Matthew is survived by his parents: Kyle Wayne Jackson and Marcia Ramirez; his loving wife of 23 years, Sommer Gurley Jackson, whom he married on June 4, 2002; his daughters: Madgesta Lee Jackson and Magdalene Rose Jackson. He also leaves behind his adored granddaughter, Alice Evangeline "Squeaker" Rose; mother-in-law, Penny Hensley; a brother, Steven Jackson; sister, Ami Jackson; sister-in-law, Misty Murphy; niece, Sarah Jackson; nephews: Daniel Jackson and Teagan Jackson; and his "adopted" children: Colleen Howell, Tate Howell, Bella Crowder, Aidan Vance and Bently Silver will miss him dearly.

A memorial service to celebrate Matthew's life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 31st, in the chapel of Yancey Funeral Services. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services. Matthew's presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. Though he has departed this world early, his spirit lives on in the laughter and memories he created with those fortunate enough to have been a part of his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made directly to them for upcoming and immediate expenses.