of Little Rock, AR
September 16, 1987 - November 23, 2023
William Matthew Gresham, affectionately known as Matt, departed this world on November 23, 2023 at the age of 36 and was born on September 16, 1987 at St. Vincent Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas. Matt attended Holy Souls Catholic Elementary School as a child. He was a High School Graduate of Catholic High School for Boys, Class of 2005. Matt was a beloved son, brother, brother-in-law, nephew, cousin and friend whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.
Matt is survived by his father, William Patrick Gresham (Pat); his younger brother, Andrew Gresham and his wife, Daina Gresham; his maternal aunt, Mary Pat Smith Tate; his uncle, Byron Tate and his cousin, Ethan Tate all of which mourn his untimely passing. His devoted father remains to cherish the memories of a son who brought joy and warmth into the lives of his family.
A passionate and creative soul, Matt found solace and inspiration in the arts. He had a keen love for painting, writing and reading, using these mediums to express the depth of his emotions and thoughts. Matt's artistic endeavors reflected the beauty and pain he saw in the world around him, capturing the essence of both people and animals.
A true dog lover, Matt found companionship and unwavering loyalty in his furry friends. His compassionate nature extended beyond the human realm, creating a bond with the animal kingdom that brought him immense joy. Matt leaves behind his beloved dogs, Vega, Prada, Envy and his feline friend, Abner.
Tragically, Matt's departure follows closely on the heels of the passing of his beloved mother, Georgeann "Jan" Gresham, just four months ago. The loss of Jan has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Gresham family, creating a void that will be felt deeply by all who loved her and now even more so with the passing of Matt.
Despite life's challenges, Matt remained resilient and determined to fulfill his dreams. He was set to graduate with a bachelor's degree this coming May, a testament to his goals he set for himself through personal growth. His journey was one of continual learning and the knowledge he gained will be carried forward as a lasting legacy.
As we say our farewells to Matt, let us remember the vibrant, creative and compassionate soul that he was. May his memory live on through the art he created, the love he shared and the impact he had on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. May William Matthew Gresham rest in peace, his spirit forever alive in the hearts of those who cherished him.
A Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30am on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at Our Lady of Holy Souls Catholic Church. Interment will immediately follow at the columbarium. Friends, family and acquaintances are invited to join in remembrance and support during this difficult time.
Sympathies and flowers can be sent directly to Roller-Drummond Funeral Home, 10900 I-30, Little Rock, AR or delivered to Our Lady of Holy Souls Catholic Church the day of the service.
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15 Condolence(s)
Byron Tate
Monday, December 4, 2023
Whatever the occasion, Matthew and I would connect. He might be ticked about the typos that showed up in newspaper copy or the opinions that crept in or maybe we just talked about his dogs. I know he had a big heart -- one of his dogs had an injury that paralyzed it from mid-section back and he cared for it in a sling until the day it died -- and he loved his family and friends to no end. He was also talented in his own right. He sent me some of his writings and they were much better than good. I encouraged him to write and to consider freelancing or a book or play. He was that expressive. His paintings were amazing as well. He said he'd just studied up on how to paint and then picked up a brush. I am sad for him that his life in all its fullness was cut short, and I am without words for his family in what they have gone through. I don't know how they put one foot in front of the other. May they find comfort but I don't imagine it will be anytime soon. Love, Uncle B
Sarah
Monday, December 4, 2023
There was no one in the world like you and there never will be again. You taught me so much about life, love, myself, and you. You picked me up every time I truly needed you, no matter how undeserving I was. It didn't matter if we were years and thousands of miles apart -- whenever I really needed you, you would find a way to reach me and you would be there. I didn't have to say a word -- it's like you could feel me from across the country.
I know how hard it was for you to accomplish your goals - you struggled silently with battles many will never see or understand but you never once gave up. We used to sit on my couch at the stack of papers that said you were too disabled to work or go to school, but not disabled enough to be actually considered disabled, wondering what to do. It seems so cruel that you left us just shy of your diploma date -- you deserved that and I'm crushed you won't get it.
When I was falling apart, you used to hold my face in your hands and look at me with your puppy dog eyes and say, "remember who you are." I'm so sorry we couldn't spend more time together and that I ran away so many times. Thank you for all the times you took care of me, lifted me up, told me I was deserving of love. I'll cherish the times we shared forever and there is a 6'5" hole in my heart that no one else will ever be able to fill.
You used to always tell me that we were connected, and I feel that still, even now.
Joann Rhodes
Sunday, December 3, 2023
Matt you came into my life in 2014 on the passing of my son your friend Bryan and you never departed.. You shared your beloved dog Bo Jackson with us.. I will miss you and the love you gave to my family.. Rest in love Matt...
Emily Allen
Friday, December 1, 2023
Matt you were an amazing soul. I am thankful for our friendship and the abundance of love for animals. Prayers to everyone who knew Matt. Prayers to the Gresham family.
JIMMIE LYNN GREEN
Thursday, November 30, 2023
Matt will be missed tremendously. I will always appreciate the love he had for his friends (my son), and the compassion he showed me when I was trying to understand him. Prayers for strength and peace as you mourn another loved one in such a short period of time.
Roland and Julie Moore
Thursday, November 30, 2023
Condolences go out to Pat and Andrew. You and your family are in our prayers, and we are so sorry for your loss. I regret not seeing Matt since he was a young man at my mother’s house years ago. Sounds like he was still a kindred spirit. Again, may God bless!
Brenda Welch
Thursday, November 30, 2023
My heartfelt condolences to Matt’s family. May he rest in peace and all of you be lifted up and have God’s peace.
Dorothy E Willoughby
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Matt is survived by his art and our remembrances of him. Praying with Pat, Andrew, and Daina. Matt and Jan are waiting until we see them again.
Chris Wolfe
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
May Matt rest in the peace of God. He was such a nice dude when I knew him at CHS
Theresa Southern
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
I remember Matthew fondly, what a sweet child at Holy Souls. Sending love and prayers.
Dustin Butler
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Matt was an amazing friend, he was very kind and intelligent. Through every one of our conversations I could see just how much compassion he had for those close to him. He will be missed by all.
Mikel Woodall
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
He will be sorely missed. My friend. No dog had a more loyal friend than Bo Jackson had in him. I’d never seen that kind of love before I met Matt.
Suzanne Sakevicius
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
My heart felt condolences go out to Pat and Andrew and the rest of the family. Matthew was always kind and polite when I saw him. I am very sorry for your loss. May peace be with you.
Ernie and Terry-Ann Rodriguez
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
We are lifting up prayers for the Gresham family. We are so saddened by the passing of Matt. We pray that memories made together will always make you smile. We are always here for you!
Christie Bowman
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Matt & I connected through not only being a cousin, but through his devoted love of animals. Will miss your smiling face .