Matthew Chad Connally

Matthew Chad Connally, 37, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on Sunday, June 21st, 2014. Matt was surrounded by his family and friends during his last days. At the time of his passing, Matt’s mom and sister were by his side. As he passed from this world, Matt had the biggest smile and brightest eyes as if he was looking into the face of his Jesus welcoming him home. Celebration services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, June 26th, at Southern Hills Church of Christ. Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene. Visitation will be from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 25th at the funeral home. Matt was born on February 5, 1977 in Clifton, TX. At the age of 11, Matt accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He was baptized by his step-grandfather, Dr. J.D. Thomas and was a lifelong member of the Southern Hills Church of Christ. Matt graduated from Cooper High School in 1995. He attended Abilene Christian University where he studied Computer Science and Business Management. Matt’s earthly passions were the Boston Red Sox, his Black Mustang Shelby Cobra GT, his puppy, Princess Leia, and his family and friends. He was a member of the Abilene Mustang Club. Matt enjoyed connecting with friends and family. He was a wonderful listener and gave open and honest advice. As a Christian, he brought several friends to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Matt is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Dwaine and Ernestine Stephens; his paternal grandfather, Charles Connally; and his step-brother, Scott Thomas. His is survived by his parents, Cindy and John Thomas, Gary and Jimmie Connally; his grandmother, Lucille Connally; his sister, Shelley Chorn and husband Chris, children, Luke and Emily; his brother, Mark Connally and wife, Lindi, children, Matthew and Abigail; 1 step-brother and 2 step-sisters and their children; along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Pallbearers will be Richard Ricks, Clay Straley, Jason Wilson, Gil Martinez, Roger Stone, and Jeremy Alvarez. Honorary Pallbearers will be Dr. Bob Kramer of Dallas, Dr. Stephen Faehnle, and Dr. Jody Crumbliss. Memorials may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 3840 Hulen, Suite 600, Ft. Worth, TX designated “Matt Connally’s Crew” or to Ben Richey Boys Ranch, PO BX 6839, Abilene, TX 79608. Special and loving thanks to Dr. Bob Kramer, Dr. Jody and Mary Crumbliss and staff, Dr. Tamara McGregor of Dallas and Kinderhearts Home Health. Matt asked for those attending his “Life Celebration,” No black please … and to please wear colorful summer attire.” Let’s Celebrate!