Matthew Ryan Williamson

Matthew Ryan Williamson, age 40, of Glenwood passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, along with his cherished dog, Fred. Matthew was known for his strong dedication and pride in his work at Reid Recovery Service, where he served as the top ground hand. He had earned the nicknames "Mohawk Matt" or "Big Matt" while out of town on jobs. His friendly nature meant he never met a stranger and always made new friends wherever he went. Many will remember his favorite Facebook post that he loved to share every morning, "WORK CALL MEN WORK CALL."

He will be deeply missed by his mother, Jackie Williamson; his stepfather, Edwin Reid; his paternal grandmother, Maybeth Maxwell; his maternal grandfather, Jack (Jessie) Jenkins; his brother, Jeremy (Courtney) Williamson; his stepbrother, Justin (Nicole) Reid; his son, LaRay Ryan Williamson; his aunt, Barbara "Flarb" (Kenny) Hayslette, whom he thought of as a second mom; along with several aunts and uncles, and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Matthew's passing is preceded in death by his beloved dog, Fred; his father, LaRay Williamson; his paternal grandfather, Reb Williamson; his maternal grandmother, Aline Jenkins; his uncle, Johnny Jenkins; his cousin, Deric Diggs; and his best friend, Larry Cogburn.

Matthew was an incredibly kind and caring person with a heart of gold. He cherished his family deeply and always spoke proudly about his nieces and nephews every opportunity he had. Instead of using people's first names, he affectionately gave them nicknames. He adored playing with his dog, Fred, often joking that Fred thought of himself as a front seat dog, that he didn't like riding in the back seat. Food was his way of expressing love, and he enjoyed discovering new dessert recipes online for his mom or "Flarb" to make. Whenever he had the chance, he would joyfully buy a meal for an elderly couple at a restaurant. Although he didn't have a sister, he considered Nicole as one. They were inseparable, and he was always there to support her in any adventure, earning himself the nickname of her bodyguard. Matthew consistently spoke with kindness and offered word of encouragement to everyone he met. 

Pallbearers will be Darrin "Smitty" Smith, Darrell "Double D" Diggs, John "John John" Brunt, Jeremy Williamson, Shawn "Scooter" Cogburn, Austin "Ozzy" McCann.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Cannon "Cannonball" Williamson, Tyler "Slick" Reid, Chandler "Red" Reid, Ryan "Son" Williamson, Luke "Lucky" Lambert, and Justin "Bossman" Reid. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel- Glenwood.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at 10:00 AM at the Glenwood Freewill Baptist Church. 

Interment will be held at Coker Cemetery.