Hilarious, hero, honorable, brother, uncle, father
Matthew Peyton had a unique tendency to turn life into music. Mundane moments were transformed into improvised songs he would sing out to whoever was there to listen. That was Matthew in a nutshell: quick-witted and warm-hearted. Whether serenading his family and friends or finding the humor in hopeless times, Matthew radiated joy.
He worked for many years at a Christian toy company–a fitting role for a man who loved giving gifts and celebrating holidays. Christmas mornings with his children, Thanksgiving dinners, and Easter egg hunts at the family farm in Brenham were among his most treasured traditions. The whole Peyton clan would gather for days of farming, hunting, and fishing–a quintessential Texas family.
Matthew was one of five boys, and their bond was unbreakable. His brothers were his closest companions, and their children grew up side by side, more like siblings than cousins. He had three children of his own–Matthew Jr., Katie Sue, and Melissa–and twelve grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as “Grandaddy.” He had a knack for making each child feel safe and seen. His kids fondly remember family dinners at the Sonic drive-in and their father’s unique habit of feeding stray cats he called his “Combo Kitties.”
Working outside, tending to animals, hauling hay, and building fences were passions of Matthew’s. Matthew had a deep love for wildlife, nature, and the great outdoors.
The Peyton family has a long legacy of lawyers and judges, and Matthew inherited their sense of justice. He was a deeply principled man with a legal mind, never afraid to stand up for what he believed was right. Despite his strength, he never bullied and instead used his fortitude to advocate for underdogs. Before practicing law, Matthew’s father was a professional boxer. Following in his footsteps, Matthew proved to be a gifted fighter himself, winning Golden Gloves matches in his youth.
He served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and attended Stephen F. Austin University, where he played football. He eventually left school to pursue a career in sales, an ideal fit for his charismatic personality.
Matthew also struggled with substance use disorder, which brought deep pain and separation from those he loved. He faced periods of homelessness and estrangement. Matthew’s life was cut short far too soon. His brother John wrote: “Matthew’s struggles brought pain and complexity to our family but also deepened our compassion. His death left a hole in our hearts, but also a fire in us to understand and speak more openly about addiction.”
Today, the Peyton family tells Matthew’s story with love, compassion, and honesty. They no longer hide his battles but honor him by sharing his full story, both his struggles and his aspirations. He was funny, faithful, flawed, and unforgettable. His laughter, songs, bear hugs, and giving heart are missed immensely.
Matthew’s brother, John Peyton, provided the information for this narrative.
May 9, 1955-September 4, 2009-Age 54
Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel
Narrative Writer: Livia Cohen
