Matthew Howard Gilson

Matthew Howard Gilson, 30, of Maxeys, went to be with his Lord and Savior Tuesday, February 2, 2016.
Born in Athens on June 7, 1985, he was the son of Dr. Warren David Gilson and Sharon "Sherry" Ball Gilson. Matthew loved traveling, and most of all, he loved people. He had a contagious smile that brightened the day of everyone he met. Matthew attended the day program at Hope Haven. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Willis Gilson, Virginia Gilson, and Howard Ball; and one uncle, Larry Ball.
Survivors in addition to his parents include three siblings, Dr. Wesley Gilson, Heidi Schoonover (Brian), and Ryan Gilson (Jeannie); seven nieces and nephews, Meghan Gilson, Carly Gilson, Graham Schoonover, Elise Schoonover, Tyler Gilson, Braylyn Gilson and Madylyn Gilson, grandmother, Thelma Ball, and several aunts and uncles.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 6, 2016 at 2:00 PM at Lord and Stephens, East with Rev. Dennis Short officiating. Entombment will follow at Athens Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends Friday, February 5, 2016 from 6 until 8 PM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 5901 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Atlanta, GA 30328 or the Atlanta Ronald McDonald House, 795 Gatewood Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329.
Lord and Stephens, East is in charge of arrangements.