Matthew Paul Hughes passed away on December 10, 2025, at the age of 37 years young. He was a loving son, brother, and a friend to many. Matthew entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
He was the youngest son and a treasured gift whose life reflected love, compassion, and a deep devotion to family and to God. Though his time on earth was far too short, the impact of his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his father, Paul Dean Hughes; sister, Erica Jayne Watson; his maternal grandparents, Frank Stewart and Norma Stewart; and paternal grandparent, Sam Hughes.
Matthew was loved by everyone because he truly loved everyone—and they knew it. He had a contagious smile and a joyful laugh that people will always remember. Even when he was hurting at his worst, he smiled and brought comfort to others. If you ever remember one thing about Matthew, if you ever met him, that would be his smile. When asked how he could do that, he lovingly said, “Mom, it doesn’t hurt when others are around. When we’re happy and everyone loves everybody, there’s peace and joy all around us. And it just don’t bother me. I don’t feel any pain.” That was Matthew—selfless, genuine, and full of grace. He worked hard and gave freely, always willing to help anyone in need. If someone needed him, he was there unless it was truly impossible. His nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and loved ones especially adored him, cherishing his humor, his laughter, and the natural way he could be both funny and real at the same time. Most importantly, Matthew lived with eternity in mind. He faithfully prayed, read his devotions, and spoke often about being ready to go and to be with the Lord. He wanted everyone to be ready for Heaven. The message he carried throughout his life—and the words that best reflect his heart—were simple and sincere: “If you’re not saved, please get saved. I’ve already prayed for you. Be ready to go—whether the Lord comes, or whether it’s your time.” Matthew now rests in the arms of Jesus—whole, healed, and at peace. As Scripture reminds us, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints” (Psalm 116:15). Though hearts are heavy, his family clings to the hope and promise of eternal life through Christ.
Matthew leaves behind his loving mother, Tammy Hughes; his brothers and sisters, Shane Watson, Thomas James (Rosalie) Watson, Lisa Beth Hutcheson, Rachael Jane Hughes, and Deanna Rosa Hughes; paternal grandmother, Anne Hughes; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and loved ones whose lives were forever changed by his kindness, faith, and love, and demonstrated with compassion.
Matthew’s funeral and celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025, at Estatoe Church of God in Spruce Pine, NC. The family will receive friends and loved ones one hour prior to the service for visitation at 12:00 p.m. Following the service, Matthew will be laid to rest in the mausoleum at Spruce Pine Memorial Cemetery in Spruce Pine, NC.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help offset the cost of Matthew’s funeral services.
The family is deeply grateful for all expressions of love, prayers, and support.
Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Hughes family.
To send an online condolence please visit: www.holcombebrothers.com
