My firstborn son, Bruce Kelly Matthews, passed away unexpectedly on May 26th. Bruce was a kind soul who always put others before himself, especially those in need. One of the most powerful examples of his compassion was when he and his girlfriend moved in with my mother’s next-door neighbor, who was bound to a wheelchair. Despite his own struggles, Bruce refused to let her suffer or be alone, stepping up to care for her when her own family would not. That’s just the kind of person he was—always helping, never asking for much in return, and making a real impact on everyone who knew him.
Bruce and I shared a special bond. I was only 17 when I had him, so in many ways, we grew up together. Losing him so suddenly has left me devastated. The hardest moment was leaving the hospital, knowing I couldn’t bring him home. The stress of trying to give Bruce the burial he deserves has been overwhelming, especially as I live on a fixed income and my husband is battling cancer. We’ve managed to secure a church service and a resting place near my parents at no cost, and we’re covering the grave opening and closing ourselves. Still, the funeral home costs and storage fees are more than we can manage. I can’t bear the thought of Bruce not having a proper service or being treated without dignity.
Our community has come together as best they can—his stepsister contributed what she could, and many have offered to help with the grave or other arrangements. But we live in a small, hardworking town where money is always tight. Any support will go directly to covering Bruce’s funeral home expenses and storage, ensuring he receives the respectful farewell he deserves. Your help means everything to us during this heartbreaking time.