WILMINGTON — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Matthew Tillman Knight, age 45, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Matthew took his last breath on December 28, 2024, tenderly surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 11, 1979, he grew up in his hometown of Stoneville, North Carolina, where he was known for his kindness, infectious smile, love for all sports, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends and community. He and his family were active members of Hodgin Memorial United Methodist Church. He was a graduate of McMichael High School in 1997, attended Rockingham Community College and was part of their inaugural soccer team. Matthew graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a degree in Marketing in 2003. Most of his career was spent at Meridian Cooperative (formerly Applied Technology Solutions – ATS) as a Solutions Designer.
Matthew was a vibrant and compassionate individual who made a lasting impact on everyone he met. One of the most loyal people, most friends became a dear friend for life! His loyalty also extended to his favorite sports teams. He remained dedicated to the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, the Atlanta Braves, and the San Francisco 49ers. He was an avid golfer, and he spent many years working at the Masters with his brother Earl. It was truly a tradition like no other! As a husband and father, Matthew was the cornerstone of his family, always providing love, support, and a sense of humor in all situations. His deep bond with his wife, Jenn, and son, Miles, was a source of pride, and he cherished every moment spent with them. As a family, they especially loved taking trips to explore the beauty of America. Their love for live music was also a constant in their life from concerts at Greenfield Lake to Red Rocks Amphitheater.
An active member of his community, Matthew was known for his generosity and willingness to lend a hand to those in need. Whether it was through volunteering with Meals on Wheels, offering words of encouragement, sending birthday cards and remembering life events of all family and friends, or supporting local sports teams, he brought comfort and joy to all who knew him. He had a unique ability to connect with people, making them feel valued and important.
Diagnosed with glioblastoma in July 2023, Matthew faced his illness with immense strength, resilience, and grace. Even through the most difficult times, he continued to inspire those around him with his unwavering positive attitude and determination. His bravery in the face of this devastating disease serves as a testament to his character and the love he had for those closest to him.
Matthew is survived by his wife Jennifer, son Miles, parents Mr. and Mrs. William and Joanne Knight, his brother Earl Knight, sister Maggie Knight Newsome (Jon), nephews Brycen and Tillman Knight, father and mother-in-law, Mr. Michael and Mrs. Jodi Hatch, brothers-in-law Eric Hatch (Jennifer), Alex Hatch (Lora), nieces Charlotte and Violet Hatch. In addition to an abundance of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. He was predeceased by his grandparents Earl and Margaret Knight, Herman Stone, Odelle Stone Owen, Elmo Owen and his daughter, Nora Claire Knight.
The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Nora Claire Knight Waves of Light Scholarship through MarineQuest youth programs at UNCW, Angels Among Us at the Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University, or the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare.
Though Matthew, aka Squeaky, is no longer with us, his kind and pure spirit will continue to live on in the love he gave to all, the endless memories he created, and the countless lives he inspired to live a full life. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
May his memory be eternal and may he rest in peace.
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