Obituary of Matthew Duncan Smith

Matthew Duncan Smith, 54, passed away on Friday, January 15, 20201, at Mercy Hospital of Ardmore, Okla. There will be a private family memorial at 2:00 pm, Monday, January 18, 2021. Friends are welcome to join us by watching the Church of Christ on Merrick Drive's Facebook page. All funeral services under the care of his family. Cremation services under the direction of Griffin-Hillcrest of Ardmore. Matt graduated from Plainview High School in 1984 where he was active in school musicals and performed in musical productions. While in high school, Matt and his brother Shannon, along with their parents, shared many memories traveling to and participating in local rodeos together. Matt loved his family, his music, and making people laugh. His sense of humor was contagious. Helping others through the struggles he had experienced was one of his greatest gifts. Cooking, grilling, and baking for those around him brought him great pleasure. His potato pancakes and bbq chicken will be sorely missed by those who love him. Matt was a talented musician. He played guitar, piano, dulcimer, bass, and most stringed instruments. Della Street and the Eccentrics were two bands he performed with as lead guitarist and as a vocalist. Matt not only played guitar he built beautiful custom made guitars by consignment and for sale through his company Me Fretworks. Matt was a member of the Church of Christ on Merrick Drive. Helping others through counseling, talking, or simply lending a listening ear is something he will always be remembered for. Many memories were made over the course of Matt’s 54 years. Christmas’ spent in Ringling, Denver City, Hurst, Dallas, and Ardmore are memories his numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins will always treasure. Matt was preceded in death by his father, Alton Smith. He is survived by his mother, Shirley Smith-Barnett, and step-father, David Barnett; and what he considered three of God's greatest blessings, Sarah Nicole Wallace, Samantha Leigh Rushing, and Parker Alton Smith, along with their mother, Tammy Smith. His grandchildren Emmaleigh Grace Rushing and Oliver James Rushing will miss their Daddo greatly. Matt also leaves behind a brother, Shannon Smith, and his children, Natalie and Austin. The last chapter of Matt’s life was spent with a very special friend, Tina Caplinger, and her daughter, Edie. Family visitation will be held on Sunday evening, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm, January 17, 2021, at the Church of Christ on Merrick Drive at 1951 Merrick Drive, Ardmore, Oklahoma. Masks will be required. Condolences may be left at www.griffinhillcrest.com.