- Date Of Birth: October 21, 1976
- Date Of Death: June 4, 2021
- State: Florida
Matthew Paul Hyland of Melbourne FL, born in Orlando FL, October 21, 1976, passed away unexpectedly on June 4, 2021.
Son of Linda LeMay Stevens (Melbourne,FL) and the late Stephen Douglas Hyland (Orlando,FL), Step-son of the late Robert F. Stevens (Melbourne,FL), Brother of Breyanna Hyland (Melbourne,FL), Emily Stevens(Melbourne, FL), James Hyland, and the late Michael Hyland, Father of Bowen Obenshain (Cookville,TN), Grandson of Paul E. and Shirley A. LeMay(Murfreesboro, TN) and Grandson of the late James P. and Blanche H. Hyland (Staten Island,NY)
He attended Cheney Elementary School, Glenridge Middle, and was a graduate of Winter Park High School. His passion for animals led him to The Florida Institute of Animal Arts to become a veterinary assistant. He also worked for his fathers home improvement company.
At the age of 13 he suffered a traumatic brain injury from a gunshot to his head, which should have taken his life.
Matthew defied all odds and was a medical miracle, not only surviving, but going on to lead a relatively normal life. Through all of the obstacles he had to overcome, Matthew never lost heart or spirit. During the most difficult times during his recovery, he was often the one lifting everyone up.
Matthew was born into a musical family, so his love of music began almost instantly. He started playing piano at the age of 8, guitar at the age of 13, and loved to sing. He enjoyed many genres of music, but his favorites were rock and heavy metal. Some of his favorite Bands were Metallica, Megadeth, Ozzy Osborne, Pantera, and Queen among many others.
He enjoyed taking daily walks, often down to Rotary Park, where he enjoyed catching up with nature. He was also an avid reader, and loved reading books by authors Stephen King and Dean Koontz.
He was extremely amiable by nature, often helping others even when he found it hard to help himself.
The name Matthew means “Gift of God”, and he truly was to everyone who knew and loved him. He may no longer be with us here on earth, but he will forever live on in our hearts.
Matthew had a special place in his heart for Shriners Children and for all animals.
