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Matthew Hollis Obituary

Matthew Wyatt Hollis

January 5, 1999 - August 30, 2015

Chapel Hill

Matthew Wyatt Hollis, 16, of Chapel Hill, passed away on August 30th, 2015.

A memorial service will be held at 6:30 PM on Tuesday September 8th, New Hope Church 7619 Fayetteville Road Durham, NC 27713 (near Southpoint Mall). We welcome anyone who wishes to celebrate Matthew's life. In lieu of flowers, we are setting up a fund to sponsor a New Hope student to share God's love on the annual Haiti Mission Trip. This was near and dear to Matthew's heart. No amount is too small. A private committal service will take place at Wake Memorial Park.

A tribute to Matthew's life can be found at

www.brownwynnecary.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer on Sep. 6, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Hollis

Sponsored by Sarah Cameron.

Not sure what to say?





A. Argila

January 11, 2018

Scrolling through and reading all the things about Matthew... makes me realize how one person can have an impact on everybody's life. As of six days ago, Matthew would've turned 19 years old. Matthew has and will always be the angel that pushes me through every day. He was a kind, loving, and an amazing friend. I wish you well Matthew

December 8, 2017

I think about Matthew almost everyday. He reached out to me and invited me to his birthday party in the fourth grade. Every time I open my journal, I remember how great of a friend he was. He made me feel loved although I felt like an outcast.

July 10, 2017

I still think of Matt very often. I wasn't even that close to him. But that's the thing about Matt, he was such a good kid and he had such a kind heart that he made an impact on me as a person. It's so weird to me that out of all the people in this world Matt was the one that had to go. Still thinking of you Bruce, Kelly, and Brian. You raised a wonderful kid.

Anonymous Anonymous

August 24, 2016

It has been about a year since Matthew passed, and I still think about him frequently. How the world lost such an amazing person. How I lost a good friend. How he is happy in heaven. How he smiles down on us every day. How we all need to follow the example he set. He may be gone, but certainly not forgotten.

Daniella Gillis

May 23, 2016

He always helped me and he was an amazing lifeguard!!!!!

Nicole and Noel Corolla

March 27, 2016

Sweet, kind Matthew has visited my daughter, in her dreams the past three nights. In each dream he has been so happy to see her, and is always smiling as he speaks to her. Matthew is with us and this means so much to my daughter. She felt peace that he's always happy to see her. We think of his family and keep all of you and Matthew in our daily prayers.
Nicole and Noel Corolla, Gibbons Family

Anonymous Anonymous

March 15, 2016

Gone yet so present, thank you for the many signs to reassure us that you are whole in heaven. Your beautiful spirit lives on as you've continued to express the love of Jesus here on earth. Thy kingdom come thy Will be done on earth as it is in heaven. We ask the Lord our father to hold up all your family and friends that miss you so so much, to give us the strength to feel happy here until we are once again reunited with you eternally. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Sarah Cameron

September 30, 2015

Kelly, Bruce, and Brian,
My heart hurts for you all as you grieve and I pray that the Lord's healing light would surround you with peace as today marks the one month anniversary as Matthew become whole in heaven. As his Sunday school teacher in elementary school at Christ United Methodist Church,
I had the honor of teaching him for almost 3 years every other week. I remember an exuberant, Christian, kind, young man filled with warmth, laughter, and a tremendous amount of love for his family. During our regular check in in Sunday school what we would call "highs and lows" Matthew never had a low. He was so happy to be a part of your family, and while some kids would say slightly negative things about their parents or siblings, Matthew always praised your family and it was clear how much you loved and cherished you all-. He was the first one to pray before donuts, absolutely believed that Jesus Christ was his savior, and could be playful during our "bible hangman" scripture verse with his creativity and brilliance - which usually meant the boys team beat the girls team. But he never gloated. He often would give his extra donuts away and was very selfless.
One of the reasons I chose to move up with that class in particular was Matthew, as a psychologist who trained initially with children I recognized immediately how special he was. Please know as his parents that you did everything right, that he loved you all and his brother Brian so much, and that he was such a beautiful force on this earth. My heart hurts with you as you grieve and I'm sorry I have not had the Ability to write before now.
In his love,
Sarah

Anonymous

September 30, 2015

Matthew you will always be with and I can feel your love and light. Please help your parents and brother heal.
In his love

Sheila Thomas-Ambat

September 29, 2015

My thoughts and prayers are with you. May Gods peace be with you.

Joan Royer

September 23, 2015

Kelly and Bruce,
I was stunned to hear that Matthew had passed away. I have fond memories of his beautiful smile and waves from both boys when I passed the house when they were playing outside and from the Halloween Parties. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

K Coffee

September 22, 2015

Dear Kelly,Bruce and Brian,
Our family has wonderful memories of neighborhood events with Matt. We feel so blessed to have watched him grow up to be a wonderful, loving, caring, smiling, light filled young man. We will wrap you all in our arms full of love, prayer and caring support forever.

Concerned and Caring Alumnus

September 21, 2015

Hollis family,
I am so, so sorry for your loss. My freshman year, the Cardinal Gibbons experienced a great loss, and years later there was still mourning. When a student, a classmate, a friend passed away, the ripples from that loss spread far beyond what you could even imagine. But in times like these, the Gibbons community comes together to be strong, to be supporting, and to be something that you can always count on. The love that is exuded within those halls resonates throughout each and every student and their family. Know you are kept in the prayers of all who attend the school and all those who have attended, as well as their families. This is not just a school, it is a community, one which you are all a part of. No matter what needs you have, this community will do all it can to provide. Hollis family, you are prayed for and you are surrounded by love. You have my condolences for your loss, and my prayers and hopes for the future.

September 17, 2015

Bruce and Kelly, so sorry to here of your loss. Your family is in our prayers.
Eddie Peed, Stem, NC

Bob Ryan

September 13, 2015

My dear Matthew, thank you for joining me on Rob's dock the Tuesday after you left. For that I will never again be alone at sunrise. Papa

Mary Ann Marlow

September 12, 2015

Dear Kelly and Bruce, I remember sweet Matthew from Christ Church Sunday
School. I am saddened to hear this news. Please know that I am thinking of you, and will continue to lift you up in prayer.
Peace of Christ.

Cathryn Zachary

September 12, 2015

You are all in my prayers. Matthew was a wonderful and kind person.

September 10, 2015

Kelly, I am so sad to hear of Matthew's passing. I am thinking of you and your family, and praying hard.

Kelly Winter Seymour

September 10, 2015

Dear Matthews family,
I work in the library at Gibbons and I still look to see Matt's smiling face every morning. What a wonderful, kind, sweet young man. I would see Matt all the time, sitting with friends, studying and just hanging out. He always was so friendly and we would talk about school.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones as you find strength and solace in God.
Please know that your son will never be forgotten at Cardinal Gibbons.
Terri Ingraham

Connor McCarthy

September 10, 2015

Mr. and Mrs. Hollis,

Matthew and I had history last year and English this year. He was one of the nicest classmates I have known. He always helped others and was so selfless. It was amazing getting to know him and will be missed in so many ways. I am so sorry for your loss.

Doug and Kelly Fuller

September 10, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce, and Brian,
Our thoughts and prayers and hearts are with you as we learned this devastating news. Had we known we would certainly have been at the service last night. Please know that your CUMC friends are here for you.
With deepest sympathy,
Doug and Kelly Fuller

Robin Visser

September 9, 2015

Kelly, Bruce, and Brian: We have been grieving Matthew's loss since our boys heard the news last week at NCAC, and you have been in our thoughts and prayers daily. Last night's memorial service was amazing and we laughed and cried at the beautiful memories and honest feelings that each of you shared so openly. In sympathy, Robin, Zoe, Jordan, & Takoda Ren

September 9, 2015

Bruce, Kelly, and Brian
I was saddened to hear of the loss of your beautiful Son and Brother.
Please know how sorry I am.
Carol Dolitka

Lynn Parmenter

September 9, 2015

Kelly, Bruce & Brian: Please know I am keeping you all close in thought and prayer. My deepest sympathy.

Diana Bytnar-Fordyce

September 9, 2015

I am so so sorry and heart broken to hear of the loss of your special Matthew. Our language doesn't have words for this. Your tribute is lovely for an absolutely lovely boy that already had accomplished so much and made a very positive mark on the world and the future. We are praying for you Kelly, Bruce and Brian forever and always.

Robert Kirkpatrick

September 9, 2015

Sorry to hear of the loss of your son. I send my prayers to the whole family.

Meghan Vanasek

September 9, 2015

I am so sorry for your loss. As soon as I saw his picture, I recognized that smile instantly as the nice young man who would often serve me a cup of hot water when I would sing at Newhope. That was our only interaction, but I could tell he had such as beautiful heart. He will be greatly missed!

September 9, 2015

We are so very sorry to hear this news. Our love and prayers are extended to your family.
Mike and Djenne Morris

Jolie Mayes

September 9, 2015

Praying for you and your family, Kelly. If there is anything we can do, please let us know.

Beth Ferrell

September 9, 2015

You don't know me and I never met your sweet son. I am a CCS Mom who is praying you and your family through. One day you will all be reunited again. Praise God for that assurance! This lifetime is just a breath. Love and prayers to you all!

Scott and Julie Welge

September 8, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian,

We will keep you and your family in our prayers during this most difficult time. I'm thankful we had the opportunity to visit with Matthew and Bruce back in June. May God comfort you all and surround you with his peace.

Wanda (Christine) Clark

September 8, 2015

Sorry for your lost my heart and prayers go out to the family

Tracey Chipps

September 8, 2015

Hollis Family,
My heart aches with you in the loss of your son. My encounters with him have always been at the cafe at Newhope. I'm into a good drink but not much up on "fancy" cafe lingo. He made sure he hooked me up just right after a few suggestions. His smile was just one in a million.
I'm sorry that I couldn't be in attendance this evening to celebrate his life. Please know that I am with you in my heart. My prayers are with you. Burning a candle in remembrance tonight.

Camerota Family

September 8, 2015

Kelly, Bruce, Brian, Judy Bob and Family,
My heart and spirit are with you at this time and always. All my love and support to you. I'm here, Kelly.
My prayers are with you, Matthew.

Kara Mathes

September 8, 2015

Hollis Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Matt was a good friend of mine as we swam together for years. He always brightened my day and brought a smile to my face at practice. Whenever we were doing shoulder exercises together, he would find a way to make it fun. I have only happy memories of Matt. I was very upset at the news that he is gone and I still can't accept that it is true. Matt will forever be in my heart and I can't wait to be able to see him again.

Paul Brewer

September 8, 2015

Bruce, Kelly, and Brian,
Words can not express how deeply saddened our family is with the loss of Matthew. We feel like we have lost one of our own. We watched him grow up together with Anderson. We watched him laugh, play, compete, explore and create. What a joy he was to be around. We know how much you love him because you love him the same way we love our boys. Thank the Lord Jesus that one day we will reunite and all the tears will be wiped away. What a celebration that will be! With love and prayers.

Rhonda Carney

September 8, 2015

My deepest sympathy is extended to your family. I had the blessed opportunity to serve in the Higher Grounds Café with Matthew. He was truly a bright light that was snuffed out way too soon. I have been embracing you in my prayers, asking God to lavish his love and comfort on you. Please know that your fellow newhope members are here to support you through this extremely difficult time. Matthew was an amazing young man, it was truly my privilege to have gotten to spend time with him. Much love!

Samantha Heuman

September 8, 2015

Mr. and Mrs. Hollis and Brian,

Matthew and I were classmates at CCS from Kindergarten through 6th grade. The stories he told of his adventures and of the things he built will always make me smile. Matthew was one of the kindest boys I have had the privilege to meet and it was a GREAT blessing to know your son and brother. May your memories bring you much comfort. Lifting you in prayer.

Todd Crouse

September 8, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian -

Matthew was one of the finest young men I've ever had the chance to be around. Enthusiastic, selfless and a great example to his peers. It was a great privilege to be one of his coaches at CCS. I am so very sorry for your loss.

Frank Hollowell

September 8, 2015

Bruce, Kelly, and Brian, for the three years Matthew was a part of our "Logic School" daily life, he blessed me and all those he came into contact with. He was a light and delight to know, and our memories of him are a joy. Our school, and my family, are praying for you all daily. We loved Matthew, we love the Hollis family. May God lift you up daily in His strength, peace, and Love.
Frank Hollowell

September 8, 2015

Dear Kelly and family, I won't be able to be with you this evening but I want you to know that I have had your whole family in my prayers. There are not words to express my sorrow for each of you. My best always, Sally Martin

September 8, 2015

Dear Hollis Family,

Our daughter was in Matthew's math class last year. She said he was the nicest guy ever and he made a big impact on her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God comfort and give you peace.

The Scott Family, Cary NC

Eric, Malissa, Christian and Gavin Larsen

September 8, 2015

Bruce, Kelly and Brian,

Matthew was a special, caring boy who was incredibly kind to Christian and Gavin throughout the years. Knowing he would bring board games to play with Gavin during carpool and always had a smile for both our boys often made the time spent together in the car a consistent highlight of the day.

We will also cherish the numerous Halloween nights we shared along with other holiday/birthday celebrations where we were able to enjoy Matthew's charming ways.

Matthew will be missed terribly by our family.

Our deepest condolences.

Matthew winning King of the Mountain at the lake with his buddies

Anderson Brewer

September 8, 2015

Dear Mr and Mrs Hollis, Matthew impacted my life more than you can even imagine, and I'm glad to say I am better for having known him. For over 10 years Matt was one of my best friends. We grew up together, played together, and most of all we loved each other. Even though Matt is gone, he leaves a lasting memory of love and creativity for all of his buddies, and we will find comfort in the fond memories we all have of him. I was so sad to learn of his passing, and I am not sure I can ever fully accept the fact that he is gone. I have so many memories of Matt and me swimming, building forts, making movies, going to the fair (the goldfish!). I was sad that I had not seen him as much the last few years now that we were attending different schools. I know I'll have to wait awhile longer to see him again, but I'm looking forward to the day that I do.

September 8, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian,
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
The Georges Family

Coach Doug, Jenn, Ethan, Owen, Olivia and Haylee Castleman

September 8, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian,
We are deeply saddened for your loss. Matthew , with his infectious smile, was truly a joy to be around. What wonderful memories we have on and off of the lacrosse field. Please know that you are constantly in our thoughts and prayers.

Martha Preddy

September 7, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian
Words seem so inadequate at this sad time. Please know that you and your family have been and will remain close in my thoughts and prayers.

Josh, Jill, Evan, Eli and Mia Rose

September 7, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian,
May your faith in God bring you through this impossible time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Bonnie & Tom Shafer

September 7, 2015

Dear Hollis Family,
We met Matt when he worked briefly for us this summer. He seemed to love being outdoors and was a hard worker. He always wanted to do a good job.We can not imagine how devastating this tragic loss is to your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Stephen Kenney

September 7, 2015

Dear Hollis Family,
I have many fond memories at Matthew at CCS. Whether laughing at jokes, hanging out at recess or in PE, or working on a project with him, I remember a fun-loving, high-energy boy who lived life to the fullest. Matthew was friends with literally the whole grade and brightened everyone's mood. As we deal with his passing, I pray that God may strengthen your family and help all who knew him to realize how truly blessed we were. Matthew is in a better place and it is only so long until we will meet him again.

Justice Skinner

September 7, 2015

Hi Brian. I'm sorry to hear about your loss. Whenever I saw Matt, he always brought life to the room. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless

Paula &Bill Robinson

September 7, 2015

Our hearts go out to you and your family for the loss of your beloved precious son. Words cannot describe our sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May you find comfort knowing that he is one of God's angels always with you!

Keri Cleary

September 7, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian,
Matthew was a wonderful person and all that knew him were truly Blessed. All will miss him. My family is praying for yours. Hugs and prayers to you.

Jimmie Armstrong

September 7, 2015

Dear Hollis Family,
Matthew was loved by so many and we will miss him greatly! His electric smile could light up a room. I am so thankful that God led us to CCS way back in 2006 and placed Matthew and Jack in the same 2nd grade class. Matthew's friendship meant so much to Jack and to us. You are all in our hearts as we share in this heavy grief together.

Anne Regen

September 6, 2015

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Hollis and family:
I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful son, Matthew. My daughter swam with Matthew at NCAC.

Nicole Corolla

September 6, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce and Brian and family,
We are a fellow Cardinal Gibbons Family. My daughter, Noel, also a junior, is friends and classmates with Matthew. We are so deeply broken hearted for the loss of beautiful Matthew. We are grieving with you and pray everyday, all day long, that you find strength and peace. There are no words to make your pain less but we hope you know that your Gibbons family is so saddened alongside of you and loves you all. Noel has such wonderful memories of Matthew and speaks so highly of what a kind young man he is. We pray that you feel the prays and much love being sent to you. Matthew will never be forgotten. May God bless you and keep you and God bless Matthew always. Love and peace, Nicole and Noel Joy Corolla

Blake Stone

September 6, 2015

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Hollis,
I am sorry for your loss. Matt was in several of my classes and was a great kid. My family and I are praying for you.

Betsy Fernandez

September 6, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce and Brian:
Im so sorry for your loss. My daughter Ashley became good friends with Matthew and she is very sad and thinking of him all the time. I never met your wonderful son but heard how amazing he is. Your family will be in my prayers. I tell Ashley to remember the good times they had and one day she will see him in heaven. God bless you.

Thomas Jacoby

September 6, 2015

Mr. and Mrs. Hollis,

I went to school with Matthew at CCS until the end of 6th grade. I have a lot of memories of him in the classroom and having such a big smile all the time. I was lucky to know him, and am praying for all of you. Matthew is at peace, and is with God in a better place.

Carolyn, Brad, Corey and Lucas Risinger

September 6, 2015

Bruce, Kelly, Brian,

Our hearts are broken. Matthew's sweetness and love were extraordinary-- they shined so bright in his fun-loving, strong young self. We are all blessed to have known him... and send you our deepest condolences and prayers for your unimaginable loss.

Iris Hicks

September 6, 2015

I was so very sad to hear of Matthew's passing! I worked in the cafe at church with him. He was always so pleasant and kind! Matthew will be greatly missed. I pray that you will find great comfort in knowing that he was well loved by so many people.

Claudia Edge

September 6, 2015

Dear Hollis family.
I went to school with Matthew since what seems like was forever we shared many happy memories and I know he is in a better place now. He will forever be in our hearts and you are all in my prayers.

Austin Bell

September 5, 2015

Mr. and Mrs. Hollis I am so sorry for your loss! I went to school with Matthew at CCS. He was such an amazing person and I was so lucky to call him my friend. You will be in my prayers. And all I can do is smile because he is with Jesus and one day we will see him again!

Abbi Tenaglia

September 5, 2015

I had the privilege of working with Matt for over a year in the cafe at newhope and he brought such JOY to everyone there. He was so funny and energetic. He will be greatly missed!

Beverly Scaramuzza

September 5, 2015

Kelly, Bruce and Brian
My family attends New Hope and always saw Matthew first thing when walking in together. He was so full of energy, smiling and eagerly awaiting to help with our order in the café. When I think back about Matthew, I am reminded of him always being at Axis, NTS camp and mission trips. I know this is the hardest thing all of you have ever faced, but just keep remembering his smile, his laughter and devotion to his faith.
Much love and prayers
Beverly and Abbey

Russell Hollis

September 5, 2015

I remember the first time I met Matthew. He came bounding through the door, all smiles, running up and down the stairs fearlessly in our rented out condominium. Even at one year of age he was almost too big for me to hold. My next memory is of our first trip to Winnipesaukee together one year later, and he was fearless then, too. Among myself, my brother, and my sister, all older than him, he was the first and most enthusiastic one to jump off the dock. He couldn't even swim but had more courage than I did. Countless memories have ensued since then. Countless laughs. Countless adventures. I could not have wished for a warmer reception or have received more love every time I visited Matt, Brian, Bruce, and Kelly at their home while in college. I will forever cherish every time we threw a marshmallow into the fire to watch it explode, every time we went fishing, every time we almost blew up the house with fireworks, and all the times in between. To my family down south, I love you more than I can comprehend and will always keep Matt in my heart.

Marvena Muldrow

September 5, 2015

Dear Hollis Family, I was very saddened to hear of Matt's passing. He and I volunteered together in the Higher Grounds Cafe. He will be greatly missed by his fellow baristas. My family and I have been praying for you all daily.

Fuller Harvey

September 5, 2015

No words. . . only love and prayers undending. .. And gratitude for the Hope which sustains and promises Life - more alive and more powerful than we can yet imagine - Together. FOREVER.

Friedman Family

September 4, 2015

We are thinking of your family and are so very sorry to hear of Matthew's passing. We remember that he was a really sweet boy from middle school lacrosse. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

Kim Dykes

September 4, 2015

Bruce, Kelly, and Brian,
My the Lord lift you up during this difficult time. I pray for strength upon your family. Please know how much you are loved. God Bless your family.

Lisa, Steve, Andrew, Russell and Melissa Hollis

September 4, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce and Brian:

I can not imagine a world without Matthew. We have many fond memories of time spent with the "cousins" in New Hampshire: singing by the campfire, eating ice cream, tipping the raft, water skiing, riding bikes off the dock and in North Carolina: birthdays, graduations and Thanksgivings. Matthew was always ready for adventure and always lead the charge. We will join you soon to grieve together the loss of our dear cousin Matthew.

Kathy Matson

September 4, 2015

Dear Hollis Family,

I am so very sorry for your unimaginable loss of Matthew. My son played lacrosse with Matthew and he loved spending Saturday afternoon practices with him. Luke said he was always kind and fun to be around! May God comfort and cradle you in his loving arms as you bear this tremendous loss. We will continue daily to lift your family up in our prayers.

The Matson's

September 4, 2015

Dear Hollis family,
We have never met you or Matthew, but our son is his classmate in high school. Our hearts ache for you all and we are deeply saddened. We pray for you several times a day, that the Lord cradles you in His arms and gives you the strength and courage to endure his loss. May his soul rest in peace with God. Our entire school community lifts you up in prayer.

Jackie Breeze

September 4, 2015

Mr. and Mrs. Hollis, Matt, a delightful young man to have worked with at New Hope's cafe'. When he came in each Sunday morning he always came to the kitchen and said "good morning Ms. Jackie". Hearing those words was music to my ears. I very much enjoyed working with Matt. He was quick, funny and was there to do whatever needed to be done. I will always have memories of Matt in my heart and will truly miss him. My prayers and thoughts are with you and Brain.

Jackie Breeze

September 4, 2015

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Hollis, Matt a delightful young man to have worked with at New Hope's cafe'. When he came in each Sunday morning he always came to the kitchen and said "good morning Ms. Jackie". Hearing those words was music to my ears. I very much enjoyed working with Matt. He was quick, funny and was there to do whatever needed to be done. I will always have memories of Matt in my heart and will truly miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your son Brain.

Bob Adamian

September 4, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce, and Brain,
I can't express how sorrowful I am to hear of your loss. Our prayers and thoughts go out to you and your wonderful family. With peace and love,
Bob and Pam Adamian

Walsh Family

September 4, 2015

Dear Bruce, Kelly and Brian,

Words can not express the sorrow we feel for your loss. Matthew was an inspiration to everyone around him. We were blessed and lucky to have known his beauty. We will always remember his amazing smile and inviting personality. Our hearts go out to you during this most difficult time.

With love,
Dan, Nancy, Liam and Katelyn Walsh

The Moore's

September 4, 2015

Celebration of Matt's Life

In the mountains of Virginia, on Jordan lake, sharing pool time at Heritage Hills, biking on the American Tobacco Trail, creating forts-movies-adventures-and countless other imaginative projects, at gatherings of friends and familyMatt embraced everything with energy, joy and remarkable curiosity. We are so thankful for Matt's love, friendship, and expanding our perspective, our view, on HOW to live and love.

Matt is part of the fabric of our lives and we will remember his generous and loving heart, his creativity and passion, and the wonderful times we shared.

We will treasure these memories always, with our love -- the Moore family.

Angie, Kevin, Riley and Rory O'Dell

September 4, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce, and Brian,

We are so heartbroken to learn of Matt's passing. Matt had grown into such a thoughtful and kind young man. We are all so blessed and honored to have known him and will miss him greatly. Please accept our prayers and love during this most difficult time.

The Mehringers

September 3, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce, and Brian,

While we are devastated upon hearing of Matt's passing, we cannot help but feel blessed to have seen him grow up to be such a sweet young man with the purest of hearts who clearly touched the lives of many. We pray for your family to remain strong at this time and hope you all realize and accept all of the love being sent your way.

Melissa Montoya

September 3, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce, and Brian..
I am absolutely and completely heartbroken for you. I know what a wonderful person Matthew was...his smile, just like his mom's, would light up a room. I continue to treasure all our times spent together in scouts...those memories are priceless. I am praying for your comfort and strength. I am just so, so very sorry.
Love and Hugs,
Melissa, Jerry, Garrett and Samuel Montoya

Kelley miller

September 3, 2015

Dearest Kelly, Bruce, and family
I am so grieved to hear about the loss of your Matthew.
I will be lifting you up to the only One who can comfort your heart and soul.
Love
Kelley Miller

Jack Armstrong

September 3, 2015

Mr. And Mrs. Hollis and Brian, Matthew will always be missed and be one of my best friends from every single one of my childhood memories. Growing up with him I could never have asked for a better group of friends than Matthew, Anderson, will and Sam. Matthew always influenced us to do the right thing and always brought the Christian concept into everything and he was always so motivational. Matthew Wyatt Hollis grew into a man and I can tell you that. Yea one decision here and there isn't great sometimes but I can promise you Matthews head was always on top of things and he always was literally an AMAZING influence on me. I will forever love Matthew and so will all of his friends even back at ccs. Also Little brian, I know this is super hard for you, keep you head in there dude because I could imagine how you are feeling you have the right to feel horrible but you have to know above anything Jesus has a plan for all you, also in my family and I are here for all of you guys anytime you need anything! I love you guys and many prayers are on there way

Nanci Blackert

September 3, 2015

Psalm 23--We love you. We are here.
May God continue to show you his Grace and Mercy through this valley.
Love, Nanci, Bill, Syd and Casey Blackert

Diane Manchester

September 3, 2015

My thoughts and memories of Matthew bring only smiles. I can remember his face light up the classroom with his energy and smile. Always building, always creating, always drawing people close to him. He was a special boy, and he will not be forgotten. May God bless you all with a peace that surpasses understanding.

Kay Farrell

September 3, 2015

Dearest Bruce, Kelly and Brian -- Keeping you all close in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Philippians 4:7
Curt, Kay, Ace & Skyler Farrell

Janine and John McGee and Family

September 3, 2015

Dearest Kelly, Bruce, Brian and all of you who know and love Matthew,

We pray for you as you grieve. We pray for peace and for courage as you face the days ahead. Love to you.

Andrea King

September 3, 2015

Dear Bruce, Kelly and Brian,
Many memories shared, tears shed and prayers said in our home the past few days. Sweet Matthew is in our hearts as well as your whole family. Praying for peace and comfort beyond understanding.

Love, Stacey, Andrea, Bailey and Ellie King

Barbara, Joe, CJ & Elena Eron

September 3, 2015

Dear Kelly, Bruce and Brian,
Our thoughts are with you all. Please know that our prayers are with you daily as you face this time of painful loss. Matthew was a great guy and a wonderful swimmer. His presence on earth enriched the world. Matthew will now look down on us all as he assumes his rightful place in heaven.

Windy (Lebbad) Lovelady

September 3, 2015

Dear Bruce, Kelly and Family:

I am so sorry for the loss you are all reeling from at this time, when your hearts are broken and nothing takes the raw pain away.

I cannot imagine the depth of your sorrow. I do know that it is not unnoticed by God. He mourns with you, He will remain with you always and invites you to cry out to Him as He wraps you in His loving arms.

I pray you feel God's presence and that you find strength in Him to face each new day that comes. I pray that in time you feel comfort from God like you cannot possibly imagine in this moment.


Heartfelt condolences for your family.

Andrea & Allen Knight

September 3, 2015

Kelly, Bruce, & Brian-- our prayers are with your family. I will never forget the kindness Matthew always gave to Alexander during his swim years at the YMCA.

Tami Thompson

September 3, 2015

Praying and keeping you all close in my heart and thoughts.

Samantha Sager

September 3, 2015

Kelly and Bruce,
Mark and I are deeply sorry. We were looking forward to seeing you this weekend and instead our hearts grieve with you.

Jill Mozier

September 3, 2015

My son, who swam with Matthew on NCAC, has only kind words to say about him. Every night we have prayed for peace for your entire family. We are so very sorry for your unimaginable loss.

May you be given peace and love beyond understanding.

Dana, Jamie, Drew, Ben, and Emery Campbell

September 3, 2015

My dear Kelly, Bruce, and Brian:
No words can express how deeply sorry we are for the loss of Matthew. Matthew was such a bright light, and we will miss his love, warmth and kindness tremendously. Know that you all are constantly in our prayers. Sending you much much love.

September 3, 2015

There are no words to express what our family is going through. My cousin Matthew had the biggest heart and brightest smile. Keep praying for my Aunt Kelly, Uncle Bruce, and Cousin Brian. He is our angel now. Love you so much Matt, and we will miss you more than anything! #Youreonmyteam. XOXOXO

janice trusky

September 3, 2015

you are in my thoughts and prayers. i am so so sorry for your loss

Tracy Betts

September 3, 2015

Sending love and prayers to your family.

Donna Mickle

September 3, 2015

Having been praying for you since we heard of Matthew's passing. May God comfort you as only He can.

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