Matthew Schylar Burton, age 38, passed away peacefully at his home in Franklin, North Carolina, on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Born in Rome, Georgia, on September 16, 1987, Matthew was the cherished son of Phyllis Jane Barnes Burton and the late Charles Benjamin Burton. He grew up in Lyerly, Georgia, and was a graduate of Lafayette High School. Matthew also served in the United States Army.

Known to all as a deeply kind and gentle soul, Matthew had a passion for craftsmanship, culture, and story. He was a talented woodworker and carpenter who loved working with his hands, as well as an avid motorcycle enthusiast who enjoyed the freedom of the open road. Gifted with a love for language and communication, he was fluent in both Danish and Spanish. A lifelong lover of the written word, he spent many years sharing his insight and passion for literature as a book reviewer. Matthew also brought great joy to those around him through his cooking, loving nothing more than preparing meals for friends and family and watching the smiles on their faces as they enjoyed his food.

Matthew is preceded in death by his father, Charles Benjamin Burton.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Emily Rose Burton; his mother, Phyllis Burton; his father-in-law, Joe Wylupek; and his mother-in-law, Debbie Armenia. He leaves behind three brothers, Wesley Armstrong, Jamey Armstrong, and Ben Burton (Heather); one half-sister, Lyzette Borrero; and his sister-in-law, Lydia Parker (Hunter and Raylynn). Matthew will also be dearly missed by numerous aunts and uncles, several nieces and nephews, and his faithful fur companions, his dog Baxter and cat Luna.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 7th, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Linwood Baptist Church located at 18 N Steel St, LaFayette, GA 30728.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, August 5th, at 1pm, at Addington Cemetery in Franklin.

Arrangements through Macon Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.