Matthew Elijah Hargis

Matthew Elijah Hargis, 42, of Keystone Heights, Florida, passed away on April 10, 2026.

Matthew was born on June 16, 1983 in Jacksonville, Florida, but spent his formative years in Keystone Heights, Florida, a place that remained part of who he was throughout his life. He graduated from Keystone Heights High School, where he played football. Following graduation, he moved to Jacksonville, where he later enrolled in the Sheet Metal Apprenticeship program, completing the program in 2014.

He was a proud Union Journeyman with SMART Local #435 Sheet Metal Workers, where he also served as a trustee. He took pride in his work and the brotherhood that came with it, always showing up with the same generosity and energy that defined his life. Early in his career, Matthew took every opportunity to travel, embracing the chance to explore new cities. He was never one to turn down a new experience, whether it was trying local food, enjoying live music, or taking in a sporting event.

More than anything, Matthew was a devoted father. His children, Chloe Morris, Harrison Hargis, and Amber Lowry, were the center of his world. He showed his love not just in words, but in presence — sitting in the rain to watch Chloe cheer, making sure he was there for Harrison’s school trips, and never missing Amber’s wrestling matches. Whether it was fishing, watching a game, or simply being together, those moments meant everything to him. That same love extended to his nieces and nephews, who knew him as “Uncle Matt-Matt,” a name that carried with it laughter, energy, and love. He was famous for giving piggyback rides and always making time for them, no matter what — moments they will remember just as much as anything else, because they were who he was at his core.

Matthew had a personality that drew people in. He was funny, charitable, and generous to a fault. He was the kind of man who never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He loved life fully whether that meant spending time with friends, showing up in person to cheer on his teams, or just enjoying the moment wherever he was. He was a loyal fan of University of Georgia football “Go DAWGS!!!,” the Sharks “Fins up!,” and the Detroit Tigers, and a huge Jacksonville Jaguars fan, bringing energy and passion wherever he went. He loved animals, and they loved him right back, a reflection of the kindness he carried so naturally.

He had a well-known love for Krystal, a passion shared by the entire family and the source of many long-standing and spirited debates over who was truly the biggest fan. While the title was always contested, Matt was often considered the one to beat, a claim he likely would have defended with both confidence and a smile.

He is survived by his loving parents, Cynthia and Mitchell Williams, who supported him throughout his life; his siblings, Ashley, Rob, and his identical twin, Phil, with whom he shared a lifelong bond; and his beloved children, Harrison Hargis, Amber Lowry and Chloe Morris, who were his greatest pride and the center of his world. He is also survived by his cherished nieces and nephews Cooper, Olive, Penny, Leiam, Reily, Penelope, Josh, Ava, Farrah, Norah and Everett, who will forever remember his laughter, his time, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, Union brothers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though quiet at first, Matt was always welcoming and never at a loss for a joke, and he will be remembered for the laughter he brought and the moments shared whether joking around or enjoying live music and sporting events.

Matthew was a Christian, and his family takes comfort in their faith as they remember his life and the love he shared so freely. While his journey of faith had its seasons, in recent years he found a renewed sense of belonging in the church and a deep comfort in the Lord. 

That peace became an important part of his life, and it is a source of comfort to those who loved him.

Matthew was an organ donor, and his gift of donation was honored by the hospital with an honor walk, a moving tribute to a life that continued to give even in its final moments. As he was surrounded by those who cared for him, his final act became one of generosity and hope for others. It was a moment that reflected exactly who Matt was, and something his family knows he would have deeply appreciated.

A celebration of life was held at the Local 435 Union hall on April 11, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to honor his memory make a donation to the Florida Sheriffs Boys Ranch.

Matthew’s life was marked by love, laughter, and a willingness to give to others. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his spirit will live on in the stories, memories, and lives he touched.

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