Matthew Lewis Edwards

Matthew Lewis Edwards, 65, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Lima Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Matt was born on July 15, 1960, in Van Wert, to Franklin B. Edwards and Marilyn Dee (Lewis) Edwards.

He graduated from Vantage Career Center through Lincolnview High School in 1978 and spent many years as a dedicated truck driver. He was a former member of Zion Christian Union Church in Grover Hill.

Matt lived life with a down‑to‑earth spirit. He loved being outside-fishing, mowing, or simply taking in the day. Dogs were his constant companions, and he had a natural way with animals. He was creative and handy, whether he was painting, drawing, whittling, or tinkering with something in the garage. Matt enjoyed a hearty meal and knew his way around a kitchen, and he was rarely without his trusty thermos of coffee. He had an easygoing nature, a habit of running fashionably late, and a gift for turning strangers into friends.

Matt is survived by his daughter, Ty (Nick) Coil of Van Wert; his father and stepmother, Franklin and Grace Edwards of Grover Hill; his brother, Andrew (Mary) Edwards of Paulding; his sisters, Julie (Robert) Kistler of Van Wert and Jodee (John) Thompson of Defiance, and his grandchildren, Kendall and Zander Coil, both of Van Wert. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, as well as great‑nieces and great‑nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn Dee (Lewis) Edwards.

A celebration of life for Matthew will be held at a later date. He will be laid to rest in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests planting trees in Matt’s memory – a fitting tribute for a man who felt most at home under an open sky and among the outdoors he loved.

Condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert.