Matthew WILLIAMS Obituary

WILLIAMS, Matthew Alexander. 1983 - 2024 Matthew Alexander Williams, 40, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of May 28, 2024, in Auckland, New Zealand. He is survived by his loving wife and partner of 16 years, Meredith Anne of Auckland. Matthew is also remembered by his father, Richard, and stepmother, Melanie, of Southwest Ranches, Florida, USA, along with his three brothers, Cole, Codey, and Chase, and his two nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Michelle Smith. Born in 1983 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Matthew attended Western High School in Plantation, Florida. He dedicated 15 years to his work as a plumber, drain layer, and gasfitter in Fort Lauderdale, where he was a member of the local plumbers union. In 2015, Matthew and Meredith embarked on a journey around the world, where Matthew spread joy and laughter to everyone he met. In 2019, they established residency in New Zealand, and Matthew pursued his dream of becoming a tattoo artist. Within two years, he built a loyal client base and recently began traveling internationally to share his art. Matthew had a passion for fishing, working on boats, traveling, telling Dad jokes and trying new food. He was also an enthusiast of graffiti, street photography, and drawing. Matthew was a long-time active member of a 12-step fellowship and died with 16 years, 11 months and 9 days clean and sober. Matthew's vibrant spirit and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Memorial Services are planned in Auckland, NZ on June 18th at 3 pm at Freeman's Bay Community Centre and in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on July 6th at 12 pm at the Sanctuary Church, where all are welcome to celebrate Matthew's life.