He was born on May 27, 1981 to the late Daniel Lee Dalton and Janice Anne Wilson Dalton. Also preceding him in death are three uncles and two aunts.
Matthew was the living embodiment of the phrase “gentle giant.” He had a great love for life and people. His laugh & smile were infectious and his “teddy bear” hugs always made you feel safe, secure, and loved. He had a laid-back personality that made everyone felt at ease, so much so that even strangers soon became friends. He treated others fairly and always tried to see the good in others, often when they least deserved it. Much like Jesus, he especially had a burden for those who the world ignores; reaching out to those who were lonely, down-hearted, and hurting. He loved his church and enjoyed his time working with the Youth and College & Career classes. But his most enduring legacy will be the way he faced adversity.
Matthew didn’t have an easy life and fought health issues for most of his adult life. But he never let that discourage him; never let the light of Jesus dim in his witness. Even in his most difficult days, he continued to trust, rely on, and love His Savior; knowing that everything was in His loving hands. Matthew will be missed by all who knew him, but we all rest easy knowing that his suffering is over as he has finally, truly, and eternally gone home.
He is survived by his brother Rev. Andrew (Drew) Allen Dalton and wife Martha of Old Fort, NC; his three beloved nieces Rebekah Nicole, Abigail Grace, and Hannah Jane; as well as his surrogate brothers and their wives Paul & Casey Routh and Andrew & Faye Vakakis. Also surviving are numerous cousins and friends.
A memorial service will be held in his honor on Friday, August 18th at 2:00 PM at Westchester Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Eric Peacock officiating. Visitation/Receiving of Friends will be at Sechrest-Davis Funeral Home, 976 Phillips Ave., High Point, NC Thursday, August 17th from 6:00-8:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Youth groups of First Baptist Church of Old Fort (PO Box 10, Old Fort, NC 28762) and/or Westchester Baptist Church (PO Box 5188, High Point, NC 27262)
