Matthew Stokes, age 40, of Paxton, Florida, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Born on February 5, 1986, in Mobile, Alabama, Matthew was the beloved son of George Stokes and Mary Gibbons Stokes. Throughout his life, Matthew was known as a hardworking man who took great pride in his profession as an HVAC technician. Whether installing a new system or helping a family restore comfort to their home, he approached every job with integrity, skill, and a willingness to go the extra mile. His strong work ethic and dependable nature earned the respect of both coworkers and customers alike.

While Matthew worked hard, his greatest joy was always found at home with his family. They were the center of his world, and every decision he made was with their well-being in mind. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with his children, creating memories that will remain in their hearts forever.

His son, Gabe, loved nothing more than going fishing with his dad. Those quiet mornings and afternoons on the water were filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of moments only a father and son can share. Gabe will always remember his dad's wonderful sense of humor and the way he could make even an ordinary day feel like an adventure.

His daughter, Lillyana, shared a special bond with her father. She found comfort in knowing that her dad always understood her. He listened with patience, encouraged her with kindness, and had a remarkable way of making her feel heard, valued, and deeply loved. That precious gift will remain with her throughout her life.

Matthew also invested in the lives of countless young people through his service as a Paxton Youth League coach and umpire. He believed in encouraging children, teaching sportsmanship, and helping them grow both on and off the field. He was generous with his time and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. If something needed fixing or someone needed encouragement, Matthew was often the first to show up.

His family affectionately joked that Matthew possessed the world's greatest collection of "useless knowledge." He seemed to know everything about the outdoors. He could identify a bird by its call, recognize an insect by its chirp, name nearly every plant he came across, and explain whether it thrived in full sun or deep shade. His curiosity about God's creation never ceased, and those little facts, though often humorously labeled "useless" became one of the many things that made Matthew so uniquely lovable.

Matthew will be remembered for his generous heart, steady character, quick wit, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Though his life was far too short, the love he gave and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, George Stokes.

Matthew is survived by his loving wife, Cera Stokes; his mother, Mary Stokes; his beloved son, Gabe Stokes; his cherished daughter, Lillyana Stokes; his sister, Megan Locke and her husband, William; along with numerous extended family members and many dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Funeral services for Matthew Stokes will be announced soon by Evans Funeral Home.