It is with very heavy hearts that we share that our brother Matt passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, surrounded by love. Matt was a proud and loving father to his daughter, Amber, and nothing made him happier than being “Pappy” to his two grandchildren, Emerson and Jax.

In his final months, his sister Melissa and her husband Jerry cared for him with extraordinary devotion, opening their home and their hearts so he could remain there in comfort and peace. His brother, Mark, sister, Maggi, daughter and many of his closet friends were also there for him along the way, reminding him how much he was loved.

Matt is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Sue Word and father, William “Mike” Word.

Survivors include his daughter, Amber Word (Connor Pagans); granddaughter, Emerson and grandson, Jax; brother, Mark Word (Susan); sisters, Melissa Batson (Jerry) and Maggi Finley (Dustin) along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services celebrating the life of Mr. Matthew Kelly Word, 60, of West Monroe, LA will be held at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Rowland Road Baptist Church in Monroe, LA with Rev. Lance Otwell officiating. Interment will follow in the Kilpatrick’s Serenity Gardens in West Monroe, LA under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home West Monroe, LA.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Mulhearn Funeral Home, West Monroe, LA.

Pallbearers will be Brett Green, Jay Youngblood, Danny Greenwell, Steve Wooley, Pete Castaldi, London Ishee, Justin Perritt, and Jared Williams.

The family would like to give a special thank you for the excellent care given during this difficult time to Elara Caring, especially Katie, Shaniya, and Tamala. To Matt’s doctors, Dr. Weinberger and Dr. Bland and their staffs. Matt truly felt cared for and thought he had all the best providers.

Matt had the best laugh, a smile for everyone, and a way of making you feel like he was truly happy to see you. He loved hunting with his dad. He leaves behind a lifetime of laughter, friendship, and love that will never be forgotten. He will be dearly missed.