Jonathan "Matthew" Floyd

Jonathan "Matthew" Floyd

Our dear, sweet Jonathan "Matthew" Floyd went home suddenly to Jesus on November 25, 2014 at the young age of 30. He is with his Lord and Savior who he loved so much, and for whom he desired to spread the Gospel.

Although born in Baton Rouge on July 2, 1984 to Donnie and Pamela Floyd, Matthew was a resident of Cleveland, TN.

Matthew is survived by his wife, Valerie, who he loved and cherished so much, his sister, Ashley Floyd-White, and spouse, Jacob White, and his sister, Kellie Floyd-Smith and spouse, Brian J. Smith. He is also survived by his nephews, Micah Floyd-White and Russell Dasher and nieces, Hannah Floyd-White, Susan and Lauren Taylor, and Anne Dasher, along with Me-maw and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his beloved Pepa, Ferrell "Dutch" H. Floyd and his Aunt Lorita Floyd. Also, his grandparents, Mary Clason, Herbert Clason, and Basil Judd, perished before he got to know them.

Matthew loved God's written Word from an early age and studied it, as well the sermons and writings of many of God's workers. He felt led since the age of twelve to enter into ministry and work for the glory of God's Kingdom. He valued his salvation as the greatest blessing of his life, walked hand in hand with the Holy Spirit, and continually held a great reverence and affection for his Heavenly Father.

Matthew earned dual Bachelor's degrees in English and History, before earning his Master's Degree in Biblical Studies and Theology, all from Lee University in Cleveland, TN. He proudly graduated Magna Cum Lauda from his undergraduate program. Matthew was also honored to be vice president of the English Honor Society, Sigma Tau Delta, and a member of the History Honor Society, Phi Alpha Theta.

It was at Lee University where Matthew first saw Valerie, the love of his life, walking on campus. Later that day, he told his sister, Kellie, that he had seen the girl he was going to marry. After being introduced to one another by his sister their incredible love story began. On October 06, 2012, after ten years of passionate love and friendship, Matthew and Valerie married in The Chapel on Lee University's campus. Matthew's heart will forever belong to Valerie.

Matthew was a wordsmith, enjoyed good music, literature, and discussions of history. He devoted his life to learning, and from this commitment he found his true passion for teaching. Matthew wanted to share his knowledge and wisdom with anyone who would lend an ear.

Although an intellectual, Matthew loved being with family, sharing holidays and going on hunting trips to Texas, Colorado, Alabama, and New Mexico.

Matthew was a beautiful light in our family. He was a voice of wisdom, steady and compassionate. He brought endless laughter and joy to our lives. He will live in our hearts each moment of every day. He was loved unconditionally and will be tremendously missed.

In lieu of Flowers, donations may be mailed to The Matthew Floyd Memorial Fund, Care of Woodlawn Baptist Church, 5805 Jones Creek Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70817.

Visiting hours will be observed at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy, on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 from 12:00 PM until funeral services at 2:00 PM.

Family and friends may sign the online memorial or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com