Obituaries 07-30-26

MATTHEW AARON DAVIS

Dec. 17, 1982-July 20, 2026

Funeral services for Matthew "Matt" Aaron Davis, 43, of Waynesboro, 
were conducted on Saturday, July 25, 2026 from First Baptist Church of 
Waynesboro, with Dr. Steve Smith officiating.

Interment followed at Serenity Gardens Cemetery in Waynesboro.

Born on Dec. 17, 1982, he was a devoted husband, loving father, faithful 
son, brother, uncle and friend whose life was defined by his unwavering 
faith, servant's heart and genuine love for others.

A graduate of The University of Mississippi, Matt earned his degree in 
Accounting before continuing his education at the University of 
Mississippi School of Law, where he earned his law degree and license to 
practice law. He served his community as an Accountant with Bonner & 
Associates, where he was respected for both his professionalism and 
integrity.

Matt was a faithful member and Deacon of First Baptist Church of 
Waynesboro, where his faith was evident not only in what he believed but 
in the way he lived each day. He loved serving others and quietly 
demonstrated Christ's love through kindness, humility and generosity.

While Matt enjoyed cheering on the Houston Astros and passionately 
supporting the Ole Miss Rebels, his greatest joy was found on the ball 
field with children. He serves as President of Dixie Youth Baseball & 
Softball and the Wayne County Soccer League, but coaching was where his 
heart truly came alive.

To countless children throughout Wayne County, he wasn't simply Matt 
Davis — he was "Coach Matt." He poured his time, encouragement and 
heart into every child he coaches, leaving an impact that reached far 
beyond wins and losses.

Above every accomplishment, Matt's greatest love was his family. He 
shared 19 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life and best 
friend, Kalyn. Together, they built a home centered on faith, laughter 
and unconditional love. The one thing Matt would want everyone to know 
is that Kayln was his "Rock," working selflessly these last five 
years during his fight. Their three children — Reece, Westin and Ralyn 
Grace — were the joy of his life.

Matt was a present father who never missed an opportunity to invest in 
his childre, whether cheering from the sidelines, helping with everyday 
moments or simply being there. His family always knew they were his 
greatest priority.

Matt had a gift for making people smile. He was known for his quick wit, 
playful sense of humor and ability to bring joy wherever he went. 
Whether among family, friends, coworkers, church members or strangers, 
he had a way of making everyone feel welcome. His laughter was 
contagious, and his kindness left lasting impressions on all who knew 
him.

Over the past several years, Matt faced an inoperable brain tumor with 
remarkable courage and determination. Through radiation, chemotherapy, 
immunotherapy, seizures and countless challenges, he continued to fight 
with quiet strength and unwavering faith. Even in the midst of his own 
suffering, his desire was to continue helping others. In keeping with 
that selfless spirit, Matt chose to be an organ donor, giving the gift 
of life and hope to others even after his own journey had ended.

He died on Monday, July 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family 
after his courageous battle with the brain tumor.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kalyn Bonner Davis; his cherished 
children, Reece Davis, Westin Davis and Ralyn Grace Davis; his parents, 
Cindy and John Clanton and Bruce and Debbie Davis; his father- and 
mother-in-law, Redell and Faye Bonner; his sister and brother-in-law, 
Shannon and B.J. Freeman; his sister, Shea Clanton; his brother, Cade 
Clanton; and countless extended family members, dear friends, church 
family, former players and members of the community who were blessed to 
know and love him.

Though his time on earth was far too short, Matt leaves behind a legacy 
of faith, love, service, laughter and unwavering devotion to his family. 
His influence will continue to be seen in the lives of the children he 
coached, the people he encouraged and the family he loved so completely.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23.

Pallbearers were Chad Chancellor, Cade Clanton, Reid McAndrews, Brad 
Moreman, Ryan Powers and Richard Walley. Honorary pallbearers were David 
Stokley, Jonathan Stokley and Johnny Mack Stokley.

An online guestbook can be signed at www.freemanfh.com.

Freeman Funeral Home of Waynesboro was in charge of arrangements.

MICHAEL MATTHEWS

Jan. 19, 1964-July 12, 2026

A memorial service for Michael Matthews, 62, of Shubuta, were conducted 
on Sunday, July 19, 2026 from the Chapel of McDonald and Sons Funeral 
Home, with Pastor Henry Smith officiating.

Born on Jan. 19, 1964, he was employed with Mar-Jac (known as Marshall 
Durbin) as a Machine Operator for 27 years.

He died on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at H.C. Watkins Memorial Hospital in 
Quitman.

He is survived by his wife, Berta Matthews; his son and daughter-in-law, 
Koby and Sharon M. Powe; his daughter and son-in-law, Kemaro Powe and 
William Watts; his aunt, Barbara Jackson of Sacramento, Calif.; four 
special cousins, Charlie Jackson, Johnny Jackson, Samuel Jackson and 
Wilson Pruitt; a best friend in Jerry Kelly and a host of family and 
friends who loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Josephine Jackson and Willie 
Matthews; and his brother, Willie Matthews, Jr.

McDonald and Sons Funeral Home of Waynesboro was in charge of 
arrangements.

CARL "MICKEY" WOULARD

Sept. 28, 1943-July 14, 2026

Graveside services for Carl "Mickey" Woulard, 82, of State Line, were 
conducted on Sunday, July 19, 2026 from Mt. Nebo Cemetery in State Line.

Born on Sept. 28, 1943, he was a devoted Logger.

He died on Friday, July 14, 2026 at his residence.

He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Bobby and Lisa Ward of 
DeLand, Fla., Brian and Beverly Woulard and Tyrone Woulard, all of State 
Line; his daughters and sons-in-law, Ella and Clarence Hill, Michelle 
and Anthony Allen and Tyresa and Earl Jacobs, all of DeLand; his sister, 
Myrtle Brown of Chicago, Ill.; 16 grandchildren and a host of 
great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his nine siblings, Leo, John, Ollie Mae, 
Donald, Lee, Creston, Kehone, Otis and Emma; and his beloved cousin, 
James.

McDonald and Sons Funeral Home of Waynesboro was in charge of 
arrangements.