Matthew Brian Smith was born on December 31, 1981, in Austell, Georgia. He grew up in Dallas, Georgia (Paulding County), with his parents and three siblings.

Matthew had such a great love for his family, especially his son, Noah. Of all his accomplishments in his life, Noah was his greatest. He and Noah shared a bond like no other. He was the best dad and, if you know Noah, you know Matthew did a great job raising him. They shared a love of the water, fishing and riding their jet skis.

Everyone that came to know Matthew knew he had a serving heart and love for others. Matthew’s heart was so big, in fact, he had room for another child who needed a father figure. Matthew was always the type of guy who had to fix everything and everyone. He was always willing to lend a hand and did for so many people. He would give the shirt off his own back if he knew someone needed it. Anyone who was blessed enough to know Matt would tell you at some point he was fixing something or helping them do something in their lives. Everyone who came in contact with him would say he always went the extra mile; he didn’t stop unless he knew they were taken care of. There was nothing he couldn’t fix and nobody that could love you more.

Matt was a successful business owner who always dreamed of becoming a firefighter. He chased his dreams with the same tenacity that he lived his life. Those dreams came true, and through hard work and perseverance he earned his place in the Bartow County Fire Department. He found family there who loved him just as much as his family at home.

Matthew’s life was cut short. He was striving to succeed within the fire department and wanted to become a paramedic. He had dreams and goals he was working hard to meet. He had plans for himself and for his son. Although we know without hesitation that he is in the arms of the Lord, he is deeply missed. Matthew left a huge hole in the lives of so many.

Matthew left behind his son, Noah, and his Godson, John. He is also survived by his parents, Terry and Virginia Smith; brothers, Terry and Travis; sister, Ginger; a host of nieces and nephews and cousins; and his treasured miniature yorkies, Zoey and Misty.

Matt is not just our angel but forever our hero.