Matthew Stephen Thompson
 aka Chewy, Rue, Pastor Matt, “the Pastor from the Pasture”
 Age 53

Matthew Stephen Thompson, age 53, passed away Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at his home in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, after a long journey of the heart.

Matt was born April 30, 1972, in Wooster, Ohio, to the late Richard Eugene Thompson and Mildred Jean Thompson. He married the love of his life, Angel (Hines) Thompson, on February 3, 2001.

He is survived by his wife, Angel Thompson; his children, Joshua “JT” Thompson and Faith “Penguin Toes” Thompson, both of South Carolina. Matt was the youngest of ten siblings, with ten years between himself and his brother Dave. Matt often joked that his parents waited ten years to have perfection, and the running family banter was that Matt “stole” Dave’s role as the baby of the family.

He is also survived by his siblings: John (Darlene) Thompson, Tim (Kathy) Thompson, Dick Thompson Jr., David (Liz) Thompson, Susan Hapner and Judy (Mike) Rockwell. He was preceded in death by his brothers Ron Thompson, Joe Thompson, and Tom Thompson, and his sister-in-law Valerie Thompson.

Matt was uncle to 35 nieces and nephews and loved to tell people that he became an uncle at just two months old. He also leaves behind numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Matt was a tall man—standing 6’6”—and proudly noted that his son towered over him at 6’8”. More than his physical stature, Matt was known for the size of his heart. He deeply loved people and passionately shared Christ with everyone he met, always wanting them to know they mattered.

He served as a Children’s Minister, later as a Senior Minister, church planter, mentor, and business owner. His ventures included kettle corn, lemonade, and a cleaning business he started specifically to support the high school where his wife works. Through these businesses, he intentionally hired students and spoke into their lives.

Matt was famously known as “The Barter King.” If you needed something, Matt would find a way to get it.

He and Angel opened their home to those in need of a place to start over, often welcoming veterans. The last family lived with them for seven years. Matt later realized God had brought them to Greenwood to plant a church specifically to reach this family. Because of this, he lovingly counted Bruce Massey, Donielle Massey, and Donovan Massey as part of his family.

Matt was born with a defective aortic valve and later learned he had Marfan syndrome. He survived three open-heart surgeries that doctors said he should not have survived. Through it all, God used Matt to reach people one at a time.

Matt’s race is now finished. He has heard the words spoken by his Savior:
 “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into your rest.”

There will be two memorial services honoring the life of Matt Thompson.

The first memorial service will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Macedonia Christian Church, located at 2428 N Highway 17A, Bonneau, SC 29431.

The second memorial service will be announced when finalized.

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Myrtle Beach is assisting the family with arrangements.