Matt Rowden

In Loving Memory of Matthew "Matt" Rowden August 21, 1999 – August 10, 2025 With broken hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Matthew “Matt” Rowden, age 25, who left this world far too soon. Matt was born on August 21, 1999 in Atlanta, Georgia. He passed away on the morning of August 10, 2025, in Sarasota, Florida, just eleven days shy of his 26th birthday, as a result of sudden cardiac arrhythmia. Matt was a bright and unforgettable presence in the lives of everyone who knew him. Known for his incredible sense of humor and ﬁerce loyalty, he brought laughter, warmth, and energy to every room he entered and every event he attended. No matter the occasion, Matt had a rare gift for making it more enjoyable for all those around him. His quick wit, easy laugh, and infectious smile made him loved by all who spent time with him. Nothing was more important to Matt than being with his friends and loved ones for whom Matt would do anything without question. If you needed him, you could count on Matt to be there for you no matter the cost to him personally. A standout athlete at Sarasota High School, Matt made his mark as a fearless basketball player. He once held the national record for taking the most charges in a single game, 8, and for the highest cumulative total during the ﬁrst half of his senior season — a testament to his grit, heart, and legendary head-jerk that never failed to ﬁre up the crowd or draw a foul call from the officials. Later, Matt found his true passion in stand-up comedy. Writing original material and performing on stage required a blend of talent and bravery—qualities he had in abundance. He made audiences laugh not just with his jokes, but with his insight, timing, and charm. Though his time with us was brief, Matt’s impact was immeasurable. The loss of Matt has created a gaping hole that will be felt for years to come in the lives of his friends. For his loved ones, his loss is nothing short of a life-changing event that has left us all broken hearted and forever diminished. The countless memories ﬁlled with joy, laughter, and love are a mixed blessing because they also remind of us of the wonderful man we are now having to do life without. Matt is survived by his loving parents, Chris and Tammy Rowden, his siblings Zach (Charis), Allie, and Pete, and his soon to be ﬁancé, Jade Graham. He was the proud uncle of beautiful Vivian, and the cherished grandson of Rosemary Leathers and Thomas Lamb, Jr. He will also be deeply missed by his aunts and uncles, Corry & Scott Tyle and Beth & Tim Malanoski, and cousins Madison & Taylor Tyle, and Morgan (Emmy), Cate, and John Malanoski. Matt’s passing was preceded by his loving grandmother, Elizabeth Rowden, and his proud grandfather, Al Leathers. There will be a Celebration of Matthew's Life on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 2:00pm at South Shore Community Church 1899 S. Tuttle Ave. Sarasota, Florida. In lieu of ﬂowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Matt’s honor to Exceptional Futures, P.O. Box 173, Lawrenceville, Georgia 30046 (www.efatl.org). This non proﬁt organization is for adults with special needs which has served members of our family and continues to do so to this day.

Matt Rowden

August 21, 1999 - August 10, 2025