Matthew Thomas Conkling

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend, Matthew Thomas Conkling, who passed away on August 11, 2026, at the age of 42. Matthew was born on May 8, 1984, to Matthew and Lesa (Merritt) Conkling in Evansville, Indiana. He attended Mater Dei High School, where he was a dedicated member of the wrestling team. He helped the team earn four team state titles and individually qualified for the IHSAA State Wrestling Tournament twice, reflecting the determination and work ethic he carried throughout his life. He worked as a proud union carpenter through Carpenters Local 224, taking great pride in the craftsmanship and dedication he brought to his work. Outside of work, he enjoyed working on cars and treasured every opportunity to spend time with his family and friends. Above all, Matthew’s greatest joy in life was being a father to his children, Matilynn, Maddox, and Madden Conkling. He loved them with all his heart, and they were the center of his world. Matthew shared 13 years of marriage with Angel Morris. Together, they were blessed with three children, Matilynn, Maddox, and Madden, who remained the greatest joy of his life. Matthew was preceded in death by his son, Maddox Conkling, his grandparents, Frank and Harriett Conkling and Paul Gene Merritt. He is survived by his parents, Matthew and Lesa Conkling; his children, Matilynn and Madden Conkling; his former wife and the mother of his children, Angel Morris; his brother, Michael Conkling (Kali); his grandmother, Marilyn Merritt; his nieces, Addison Whitfield, Miaka, Evie, and Hannah Conkling; his nephew, Jace Conkling; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory. Matthew faced the difficult battle of addiction, a struggle that touched many aspects of his life. While addiction was part of his story, it did not define the man he was. We choose to remember him for his love, his laughter, his generous heart, and the countless memories he created with those who knew and loved him. It is our hope that by sharing this part of Matthew’s story, others struggling with addiction will know they are not alone and that help is always available. Funeral services for Matthew will be held at 6:00 PM on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Pierre Funeral Home, Rev. Christopher Droste officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 2:00 PM until service time on Monday at Pierre Funeral Home, 2601 W. Franklin Street. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Mater Dei Athletic Department or to New Opportunities for Wellness Counseling, 320 NW Martin Luther King, Jr Blvd, Evansville, IN 47708 in Matthew’s memory, helping support individuals and families affected by addiction. Matthew will be remembered for his kind heart, his willingness to help others, his sense of humor, and the deep love he had for his family. Though his journey was not without hardship, the love he shared and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Please keep Matthew, his children, and our family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time as we celebrate his life and hold close the memories he leaves behind. Condolences may be made online at www.pierrefuneralhome.com.

Matthew Thomas Conkling

May 8, 1984 - August 11, 2026