Matthew Eric Jefferson
July 30, 1982 – October 24, 2023

Matthew Eric Jefferson, 41, of Sweet Home, Oregon, died peacefully in his home on October 24, 2023. Matt was born July 30, 1982, in Anchorage, Alaska, and moved to Lebanon, Oregon, when he was three years old, where he attended Lebanon elementary schools and Lebanon High School.

Matt is survived by his parents, Julie Jefferson (Brian) Sweet Home, and Eric Jefferson (Lisa) Marcola. Brothers: Aaron Jefferson, Lebanon; and Seth Jefferson (Ellie), Gig Harbor, Washington. Nieces: Bekah Jefferson, Eugene; Hailey Jefferson and Callie Jefferson, McKenzie Bridge; stepbrothers: Brandon Mankle, Bellingham, Washington, Brett Mankle, Stuttgart, Germany; and Adrian Higham, La Pine.

Matt was a talented artist and illustrator. While most kids were reading comic books, Matt was drawing them from the age of four. His passion for art inspired his three younger brothers to draw. He patiently taught them and helped them discover their artistic talents. He was a prodigy with the pencil and gifted his art to many friends and family. In his later years, his medical condition impacted his ability to draw according to his standards, but he never ceased to create. His mind was filled with fantastical stories and characters, which he printed across endless sketchbooks. His art paralleled his life, consisting of his faith, his brothers, and his demons, but above all, it was always filled with Matt’s silly sense of humor.

During Matthew’s teen years, he was diagnosed with epilepsy, which he battled for the remainder of his life. Although his life was filled with hurdles and obstacles, Matt never complained about his seizures or limitations. His smile and laughter were larger than life, and his faith and love for the Lord remained strong.
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Matthew is preceded in death by his brother, Josh Jefferson, who passed away on September 2, 2023; grandparents: Macel and Betty Jefferson; Norman Clyde and Diane Hilliard; Roger and Jan Gerdes; Uncle Michael Hilliard; and Aunt Terrie Burnett.

Viewing will be 10 am Saturday November 4th at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel followed by a service at 11 am. Burial will take place at Lewis Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Epilepsy Foundation of America or a charity of your choice. Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling arrangements. www.sweethomefuneral.com.