Matthew Scott Smith

Matt’s life story was anchored by a love that began 26 years ago in Mrs. Calhoun’s Algebra 2 class. From high school sweethearts to a lifetime of shared memories—Matt and his wife, Michelle, built a life defined by partnership and adventure.

Professionally, Matt was a respected figure in the gas detection industry, known for his work at Otis Instruments. He was a man of high integrity who dedicated his career to the science of safety, ensuring that others could return home to their families every day.

To know Matt was to know a "man of a million hobbies." He was a lifelong learner who could dive into any subject—be it the intricacies of science, the care of animals, or the far reaches of the galaxy. A dedicated Sci-Fi fan, he often viewed the world through a lens of exploration and logic, balanced perfectly by his unique sense of humor. Matt was famous for his repertoire of catchphrases and his ability to quote movies at exactly the right moment, bringing light and laughter to any room.

Above all his interests, Matt’s greatest pride was his three daughters. He was a devoted father who instilled in them his same sense of wonder and kindness.

Matt went out exactly as he lived: wearing his favorite Band’s T-shirt, having a blast with his friends, and exiting in a total blaze of glory. He understood that in life, as in his favorite stories, it is always "Journey before destination."

He is survived by his loving wife, Michelle Ethridge; his daughters, Delilah, Molly, and Matilda Smith; his mother and step-father, Julie and Waymon Armstrong; and his father, James Smith.

He is also survived by his twin brother, Michael Smith and wife Jessica; his older brother, Gregory Smith; his brother-in-law, Brett Ethridge; and his sister-in-law, Mallory Endres and husband Andy.

Matt leaves behind his grandparents, Pearl Smith, and Wanda and Harland New; his nephew and niece, Lincoln and Lorelei Smith; his nibling, Tori Craig; and a community of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will miss his brilliance and his humor.

"I'll keep you in my heart and I'll keep you in my mind." — Pennywise