Matthew Allen Hurt's Obituary
Matthew Allen Hurt, age 62, of Centerville, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026, at Centerville Specialty Care surrounded by his loved ones.
Born on September 24, 1963, in Davenport, Iowa, Matthew was the son of Franklin and Ruby (Chapman) Hurt. He grew up in Davenport, moving to Centerville his senior year of high school and graduated with the Class of 1982 from Centerville High School. Not long after, fate stepped in-by chance, he met the love of his life, Lois Williamson, in 1984. Their connection was immediate and enduring. They were united in marriage on January 21, 1986, in Centerville, later reaffirming their vows in South Carolina, a reflection of a love that only grew stronger with time.
Matthew was known for his strong work ethic and the pride he took in every job he held. Throughout his life, he worked for the City of Centerville, caring for the grounds at Oakland Cemetery, was employed at BP, contributed to the Centerville School System, and served in maintenance at Centerville Housing. Beyond these roles, he was a trusted handyman, always ready to lend his skills to neighbors, friends, or anyone in need.
Service to his community was something Matthew embraced wholeheartedly. He could often be found volunteering during Pancake Day or helping out at the fairgrounds, quietly giving his time without expecting recognition. His generosity extended far beyond organized events-he truly never knew a stranger. Matthew had a rare gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for. Even as his health declined, his instinct to help others never wavered. He would, as many said, give the shirt off his back to someone in need. Matthew will be remembered as a very kind soul-someone whose life was marked not by what he had, but by what he gave.
In his free time, Matthew enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved playing pool and cards, spending time outdoors, and most of all, being with his grandchildren. Those moments filled with laughter, stories, and love-were among his most treasured.
Those left to honor Matthew's memory are his devoted wife of nearly 40 years, Lois Hurt; his children, Christopher Williamson, Joshua Williamson (Brittany Poguette), and Ashley Hurt; his sister, Becky (Alan) Boyter; his sister-in-law, Shari Hurt; his brothers-in-law, Charles Lineback and Robert Lineback; along with many beloved grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Ruby Hurt; his brother, Daniel Hurt; his in-laws, Ralph and Fairy Williamson; his brother-in-law, Kenneth Lineback; his sister-in-law, Marty Lineback; and his grandparents, Daniel and Lucille Hurt and Clarence and Pauline Chapman.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11AM, Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Solid Rock Church of God in Centerville with Pastor Tony Angran officiating. A private burial will be held at a later date at Dale Cemetery, north of Centerville. Memorials may be made to Becky Boyter, to be used towards final expenses, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Hurt Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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