Matthew David Burton - Cremation Society of Virginia

Matthew David Burton

March 12, 1980 - July 3, 2025

Matthew’s life was a tapestry woven with humor, love, and a touch of endearing mischief. He possessed a charismatic spirit that could light up any room and a knack for bringing joy—whether it was through his famously inventive nicknames like Shirl or Moon, or his fierce enthusiasm for beach days and competitive games of Red Ball with the “Fweet.” His ability to find laughter in life’s simplest moments was a gift to all who knew him.

Deeply caring and fiercely loyal, Matthew would give without hesitation, often putting others before himself. Though he faced life’s challenges and imperfections like any of us, he approached them with sincerity and a desire to mend and connect. The last months of his life were filled with reflections on reconnecting with loved ones, an endeavor that spoke to the kindness and depth of his heart.

While Matthew certainly had his stubborn moments—his unique brand of tenacity only serving to highlight his vibrant personality—his imperfections were part of the diamond-like beauty that endeared him to family and friends alike. His stories, infectious laughter, and unwavering love remain in our hearts as treasured memories.

Matthew leaves behind his loving and devoted parents, Lauren and Richard Burton, his brother Rick, a circle of cousins, and countless friends who cherished and admired him deeply. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit continues to inspire, reminding us of the beauty found in imperfection and the power of unconditional love.

As we remember him, we hold close the words of his girl Whitney: “Sometimes it hurts to love so bad…and it hurts like hell, that’s the way it feels.” In this ache, we find the depth of his impact on our lives and the eternal nature of his presence in our hearts.

Rest in peace, Matthew. You are loved beyond measure and missed beyond words.

A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday July 19th, 2025 at 1pm, please send any flowers to:

133 Allison Rd Newport News, VA 23602

Cremation Society of Virginia

Susan Hughes

Michael Day

Joan Durgin

Light a candle

Flowers & Gifts

Arrangements starting at $35

Plant a Tree

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for the time we shared, we announce the passing of Matthew David Burton, who left us at the age of 45 in his beloved Virginia, where he both began and concluded his journey. Matthew’s life was a tapestry woven with humor, love, and a touch of endearing mischief. He…

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I am just now learning of this, and my heart is very heavy. Matt was such a person to be around. He could walk into a room with all the lights on and make it even brighter. His joy for life and unending smile were so infectious. No matter what type of day you were having, he would make sure it got better. I consider myself lucky to have met and worked with him. I am sure he is making God smile and laugh right now. till we meet again.... My condolences go out to the family.

Matt, you are truly missed. Although we only worked together for a year, you had an incredible ability to light up any room within minutes. I’ll miss our laughter and the music playlists you always shared; they brought so much joy, not as much as you did. I am praying for your family that God will strengthen them moment by moment.

I am truly heartbroken with the news of my work bestie leaving this earth. Although we've only known each other for a year, it feels like a lifetime. The lab is not the same without Matthew and his presence was felt. Every day we'd go on our breaks together and I miss my daily emoji asking if I was ready to go. On the surface he was this happy go lucky guy who exuded high energy and fun, but there was so much more to him. We'd often talk about our lives and wearing a mask to make others comfortable but worrying that we would lose our true selves. There were so many layers to Matthew, and I feel honored to know some of them. I miss him asking questions about a problem that he already knew the answer to, but letting him talk it out to confirm that he was right. He had a huge heart and a great core; he loved his mom and fur baby with every breath inside him. I think back to our last conversation and what he said to me. He said that I was his person and that he loved me, I just wished he was here to know that he was loved back. I think back to all the nicknames he gave everyone & his crazy sayings, and it brings a smile to my face and a tear to my eye. My heart hopes that he is at peace now and able to be his true authentic self without judgement or apologies. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Love his work bestie, Bernice.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved coworker and friend, Matthew. His unwavering positivity, dedication, and kindness left an indelible mark on each of us. Whether it was a warm smile in the hallway, a word of encouragement during hectic moments, or his unique ability to bring calm to any situation, Matthew made our workplace brighter simply by being in it. We will miss his laughter, his thoughtfulness, and the quiet strength he brought to every project. We are profoundly grateful for the time we shared with him. Our deepest sympathies, The Events Services Team at Jefferson Lab (Alyssa, Dan, Jennifer, Joshua, Nina and Sarah).

You will be truly missed, we have only know each other a short time, but you were one of my favorite people to work with.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Matthew was truly one of the best people I have had the privilege to know and work with. From the moment he joined our team at Jefferson Lab, he took us 'under his wing' and literally looked after us. When I arrived at work, he was already there brewing coffee with a cheery 'Good Morning Sir' and 'Have a Great day and week'. Our conversations together, whether to do with work or things outside of work, always cheered me up. He brought a ray of cheerful and enduring sunshine to my life at work. I miss him so terribly. Rest in peace my friend.

Matthew, we’re in “missing your cheery countenance terribly” mode. You were an inspiration at deflecting life’s minor bureaucratic insults with humor. If I could arrange your travel for a change, I’d make sure your heavenly train was worthy. In addition to the wood-paneled vape car, the seats would be super comfortable, the journey would be express, the ticket would NOT be lowest price, and you never have to turn in any receipts. The train would disappear in a cloud of mist, just like you on your breaks. Nothing but the best for you, bro.

Missing you!

So very sorry for the loss of this sweet soul. I love you Matthew.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.