Matt Smith Family Memorial

This fundraiser is for the benefit of the family of Matthew Smith of Quincy, IL.

Matt passed away suddenly and tragically in a car accident on December 1st, 2022 at the age of 40. He leaves behind his wife, Clare, and 5 children: Elaina 17, Isaac 14, Gideon 11, Josiah 9, and Levi 7. Matt was the administrator of the Western Illinois Special Education Cooperative based in Bushnell, IL. Clare is a full time mother and homemaker.

Matt was the sole provider for his family.

He was a hard working and dedicated family man. One of his favorite scriptures was Proverbs 6:10-11 which reads: “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man”

Matt lived this scripture, never shying away from hard work, whether manual labor on his hobby farm or in his professional career.

He was a gifted teacher, dedicating his life to the education of children, beginning with teaching first year campers at Boy Scout Camp, followed by pursuing a career as a professional educator, and eventually taking on the role of youth minister at his church where he reached out to dozens of at risk teens and brought them in to the church family. Countless youth have been shaped and positively impacted by his efforts as a minister and educator.

Please consider helping Matt’s family during their time of grief and uncertainty. This fundraiser is organized primarily by Nicholas Smith, Matthew's Brother. Funds will be for Benefit of Matt's wife, Clare Smith, who will be a beneficiary of this fundraiser.