Matthew Thomas Hamby

Matthew Thomas Hamby, age 27, of Hensley, Arkansas passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025. He was born on October 10, 1997, in Little Rock, Arkansas to parents Chuck and Kelley (Strange) Hamby. Matt was preceded in death by his Poppa, Lloyd Hamby, grandparents, Frankie and Bill Bryant; uncle, Kenneth Strange; great-grandparents, Edith and Clarence Lily; great-grandmother, Edith Crane; great-aunt, Ocylene Hamby; and childhood best friend, his beloved fur baby Duke.

Matt lived every moment wide open, with a need for speed that defined his adventurous spirit. Whether he was tearing through the mud in his side-by-side, SCREAMING across the water in his boat, or burning rubber down backroads, Matt was always chasing the thrill. Larger than life and always the life of the party, his happiness was infectious and his selflessness unmatched—he’d drop anything to help someone in need. A master bass fisherman and a skilled hunter, Matt had a deep love for the outdoors and a gift for making every trip memorable. In just 27 years, he packed in a lifetime of laughter, love, and unforgettable stories, living every day exactly the way he wanted—fast, full, and free. An expert giver of hugs, you've never truly felt one until you got one from Matt.

In addition to his parents, those left to cherish Matt's memory include his sister, Edie Hamby; grandmother, Sara Hamby; niece, Charlie Kate; uncles, Rusty Hamby and Keith (Kim) Strange; special cousin, Tyler Hamby; cousins, Ashley Strange, Amy Jenkins, John Strange, Seth Strange, and McKayla Strange; girlfriend, Shay-Lynn Riddle; as well as many other beloved family members; and large wonderful group of friends that supported him and each other.

A visitation for Matthew will be held Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 5:00 PM at East Union Missionary Baptist, 20422 N Springlake Rd, Hensley, AR, followed by a celebration of life at 6:00 PM. Please come in Matthew Hamby approved attire (jeans, camo, or even your mudding clothes).