Matthew "Matt" Gaston

NEW HARTFORD – Matthew "Matt" Gaston, Sr., aged 58, went home to be with the Lord, on Thursday, July 4, 2024, following a courageous battle with prostate cancer. Born in Utica on October 4, 1965, Matt was the son of the late Fred Gadsden (Gaston), Sr. and Deloris J. (Holmes) Gaston. He attended UFA, followed by his six-year service as a member of the U.S. Army Reserves National Guard. At one time he shared a relationship with Tammy Liendecker, and from that union came the blessing of two sons. Later, he married Patricia Wilson, and another son was added to their family. Matthew gained employment at Hamilton College, serving in the maintenance department for over 20 years until his retirement. He then aspired to travel the country in his minivan that he customized himself. His work not only displayed his dedication but also his skills as a gifted handyman. Known for his spirited sense of humor and selfless nature, Matt was often described as "the greatest father ever.” He was always available to offer his love and care to those he cherished the most. As a people person, he greeted everyone with a hug and a smile. In his leisure, Matt relished the simple pleasures of life. He loved the outdoors, and particularly enjoyed fishing and cookouts. He was a gifted handyman who delighted in tinkering and was a proud craftsman in carpentry. Matthew is survived by his sons, Maurice and his wife Brendalis Gaston, Marcus Gaston and his fiancé Donald Hamoy, and Matthew Gaston, Jr.; grandchildren, Ayahlis, Zhavialis, and Lauralis ("Mattie"); and siblings, George (Mary) Gaston, sister-in-law, Belinda Gaston, Lillie (Walter) Savage, Evelyn Gaston Opinya, Esther Gaston, Fred (Barbara) Gaston, Jr., Nancy Gaston, Charise Glenn, and Freda Gadsden. He held close to his heart the memory of his sister, Wendy F. “2-40” Gaston, who preceded him on August 31, 2022. He leaves his memory to a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts and uncles, Reggie Holmes, Juanita Bass, Leona (John) Booth, Debbie Getman, and Eleanor Holmes; cousins, and many special friends, including, Al Knowles, Carlos Santiago, and Rocco Knowles. He was additionally predeceased by his uncle, Willie “Uncle Bill” Wright; paternal grandmother, Evelyn Bell; and maternal grandparents, Esther Brown, and Everett T. Holmes. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, from 3:00-4:00 p.m., at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Matthew’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Matthew "Matt" Gaston

October 4, 1965 - July 4, 2024