Matthew Wayne Seely

Matt was born in Wichita, KS, the youngest of the crew of three born to David and Debra Seely. He graduated from Wichita North High School in 2008, following in the footsteps of his paternal grandparents. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Southwestern College, the alma mater of his maternal grandparents. Matt was incredibly proud of his family, and he enjoyed sharing those academic connections with his grandparents. He loved his family and he especially loved being an uncle. He also enjoyed sharing new experiences and offering witty commentary on family vacations. Matt had an unforgettable smile and he gave the warmest hugs. He was the embodiment of compassion and love, and he did not hesitate to put the needs of others before his own. For years he could be found volunteering behind the counter at Mead’s Corner coffeehouse, where he enjoyed making and eating gelato. He was generous and thoughtful. He was an ally and advocate for LGBT rights, social justice, and anyone who needed someone to be on their side. He wanted a kinder, more just world. He loved nature and was a friend to pets and other animals. Matt was passionate about music, movies, science fiction, technology, Legos, and video games. His knowledge in these areas was limitless and he enjoyed impressing others with his ability to recall trivia. He was extremely clever, and those who were lucky enough to know him surely had the benefit of being entertained by his wit. He had a creative spirit and was talented in a variety of musical and visual arts. His professional work included freelance graphic design, digital illustration, landscaping, and home remodeling, and he most recently worked in public opinion research. Matt’s earthly journey came to an abrupt end following a lengthy battle with depression and anxiety. He fought with all his might, and his family is grateful for the time and memories he gave them. He will forever be loved and missed. Matt is welcomed into his next journey by those who preceded him in death: his paternal grandparents, Rev. Gene Seely and Arline Seely-Bensch; his maternal grandfather, Rev. Kenneth Short; and his niece, Piper Jean Crain. He is loved and missed by his parents, David and Debra Seely of Wichita; brother, Michael Seely (Michael Patch) of Ozawkie; sister, Elise Crain (Nicholas) of Lawrence; nephews, Aydon and Gavin Crain of Lawrence; grandmother, Lois Short of Wichita; step-grandfather, Larry Bensch of Lawrence; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended relatives. A public memorial service will be held April 23 at 2 p.m. in the Sanctuary of First United Methodist Church of Wichita, 330 N. Broadway. The memorial service will be live streamed and available to view by clicking "Watch Event" below. Interment will take place at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery of Lawrence in a private family ceremony. Memorial donations can be made in Matt’s honor to the following charitable organizations: Star Legacy Foundation (starlegacyfoundation.org); NAMI Kansas Chapter (namikansas.org); and United Methodist Open Door (umopendoor.org). Matt’s family urges anyone in distress to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK. Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.

Video Link