Matthew Lahey

Matthew David Lahey, 47, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at his residence.

Matt was born on November 4, 1978 and was the beloved  son of the late Richard L. "Dick" and Shirley Joyce (Miller) Lahey.  He was raised in Jerseyville, where he formed lifelong friendships and became a familiar, well-loved presence throughout the community.

After graduating from Jersey Community High School, Matt followed his father's footsteps and began working for Steckel Produce in Jerseyville. Over the next 30 years, he built a career in the produced business, earning the respect and friendship of countless people through his strong work ethic, larger-than-life personality, and natural ability to connect with everyone he met.

Matt truly never met a stranger. He was the life of the party, always ready to share a story, a laugh, or a good time. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening, building demolition derby cars, watching NASCAR, and making memories with the people he loved.

Nothing meant more to Matt than his children, Wyatt and Nora. They were his greatest pride and joy, and being their Dad was the most important part of his life. He also cherished his beloved dog, Charlie Sue, who held a special place in his heart.

Following the loss of his parents, Matt was embraced by several families who welcomed him as one of their own. The Steckel, Strebel, and Daiker families became especially meaningful to him, surrounding him with friendship, support, and a lasting sense of belonging. Matt was also blessed with many men who stood by him throughout his life and whom he proudly called his "brothers". These friendships were built on trust, shared experiences, and bonds that went far beyond words. For Matt, family was defined not only by blood, but also the connections formed with those who stood beside him throughout his life.

Matt leaves behind his beloved children, Wyatt Matthew and Nora Jean; his sister, Shawn (Jeff) Almeter; his nieces and nephew, Sara Maltimore, Justin Almeter, and Jessica (Alyssa) Myers; and his aunt, Carol Nord.

He is also survived by Kylie Lahey, the mother of his children, and her family, who continued to love him and consider him one of their own; his mother and father in-law, Lori and Joe Travers; his brothers and sisters in-law, Brett (Julie) Travers, and Chase (Jade) Travers; as well as his nieces and nephews, Collin, Andrew, Will, Vince, Lucas and Hattie Travers.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his aunts and uncles, Mary Lahey, John Lahey, Tom Lahey, and Ben Lahey; and his nephew, Xander Plont.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville. It is requested, if possible, to wear your Long Live Lahey shirt.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Jerseyville, with Father Martin Smith officiating.

Matt will be laid to rest alongside his parents at Kane Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to his family to benefit his children, in care of the funeral home.

Matt will be remembered for his hard working spirit, unforgettable personality, and the many friendships he cultivated throughout his life. The stories he shared, the laughter he brought, and the memories he created will remain treasured by all who knew him. His absence will be felt most deeply by Wyatt and Nora, whose lives will forever be shaped by their father's love.

Rest easy Matt.  You were loved by so many, and you will never be forgotten.

Memories may be shared with the family at www.crawfordfunerals.com.