William Matthew Edwards

William Matthew Edwards, known as “Matt” to His family, also known as “Toughy” to many friends, passed away unexpectedly on November 12, 2022. at the age of 53. .Matt (Toughy) was born on December 7, 1968 to Billy and Sally Diegel in Port Lavaca, Texas.

Matt (Toughy) is survived by his two children, David and Jessica; his mother, Sally Diegel; his five brothers, Sean, Marc, Darrel, Billy, and Jimmy; his many nieces and nephews; and his fiancé, Brianna.  He was a father figure and close friend to many and will be missed by all who knew him.  He was preceded in death by his father, Billy.

Matt (Toughy) was a Journeyman Plumber, and he had such a passion for Plumbing.  From 2017 to 2019, Matt (Toughy) contributed in the monumental project of the complete remodel of the Environmental Programs Division offices at ODOT, receiving awards and certificates of gratitude and appreciation.  Matt (Toughy) was a 2019 Graduate of the Lexington Plumbing License Trade-Program.  Matt (Toughy) aspired to one day run his own plumbing company.

Matt (Toughy) valued spending quality time with his fiancé, Brianna, with plans to strengthen and build a family together.  He enjoyed cooking, taking on difficult (not too difficult for him!) tasks and projects, shopping for art glass, playing to win at the casino, and beating the drums.  He had just signed up for drum lessons before his passing.  He worked hard to provide for his family and was always willing to be there for a friend in need.  He has been the greatest friend many have ever had.  Matt (Toughy) displayed integrity that some would call rare, he remained humble through his trials and tribulations, his humor was enthusiastically (hilariously) unique, and he was blessed with an ability to relate and understand others no matter the environment or the person. Many say “there was never a dull moment” when in the presence of Matt (Toughy).

By understanding what made him happy, what mattered to him, and what he wanted to achieve, he was able to live his life to the fullest.  

A fundraiser has been created and those who wish to make contributions to help the family with the costs of services can be made by accessing the fundraiser here: gofund.me/0a632c5d