MATTHEW CHARLES SLAY
Matthew Charles Slay of Trinidad, CA, passed away December 6, following a brief and courageous battle with an oversized piece of steak. He was 42.
Matthew was born in Lancaster, was a 2000 graduate and valedictorian of Palmdale High School, and earned a B.A. in English from California State University, Bakersfield.
Matt had a lifelong, unquenchable thirst for knowledge which was obvious even in his early childhood. He had immutable interests in paleontology and herpetology, and it was not unusual to find him chasing reptiles across the desert floor. Matt was an avid fan of heavy metal (which was clear to every other occupant of any car he occupied). Unsurprisingly — because why pass up an opportunity to learn something? — he preferred metal bands and albums which factually described historical events. Matt enjoyed illustration and animation in nearly all their forms and was a talented artist himself. He had the dialogue from entire seasons of The Simpsons completely memorized, collected comic books, and may or may not have had an icon from a manga series imprinted on his body. He was also a fan of science fiction and fantasy literature, inspiring his loved ones with his belief in the magic of fantasy worlds. He had recently been dabbling in creating his own graphic novels.
Professionally, after a brief stint in post-primary education, Matt spent most of the last decade developing practical skills. He spent several years installing solar and HVAC equipment and working as an apprentice mechanical engineer. He had been honing his kitchen skills and was nearly finished with a culinary degree from Woodland Community College. He spent this summer working in hospitality at a remote lodge on the Rogue River where, of course, he befriended a rattlesnake.
Despite his affinity for dark humor, he was empathetic and compassionate. Despite his provocative opinions, he was kind and easy to love. He was a loyal friend.
Matthew was a loving father, son, and brother. He is survived by his twin daughters, Irelynn and LilleeRose of Arlington, Texas, who inherited his sense of humor, his red hair, and his feet. He is also survived by his father, Charles, of Trinidad, brother, Christopher, of Trinidad, and a legion of cousins and close friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and champion, Nancy.
A robust celebration of life will occur in the first months of 2024. In the meantime, those wishing to pray for Matthew’s eternal life are invited to attend a memorial Mass at 10 AM on Saturday, December 16, at St. Cornelius Church in Long Beach. A small gathering of family and close friends will follow. If interested in attending the small gathering this weekend or the larger celebration in 2024, please contact RequiemForMatt@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, please cut your food into bite-sized pieces and chew it thoroughly.