Matthew Harris

Matthew James Harris, 18, passed away on September 3, 2020. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on November 29, 2001, to Jennifer Geery, of Mitchellville. Matthew was the sweet kid with the most infectious smile. He began his school years at Smouse Opportunity School in Des Moines; he attended elementary schools in Des Moines and elsewhere; and attended high school at Southeast Polk and DMACC.

From an early age, Matthew enjoyed all kinds of music. He liked to fish, play basketball, hang out with his friends, and anything to avoid going to school. He enjoyed photography, watching movies, and discussing politics and history with his mom. He especially loved his dog Brittney that his mom got for him when he was 8, and Lambo (short for Lamborghini), a dog he adopted from ARL just a few days ago. Matthew made friends easily, and he was always eager to help them whenever needed. He loved driving his Camaro and riding his motorcycle, and he relished participating in the 515 Celebration rides and being a part of that group that has spread joy to others affected by the pandemic and the recent derecho.

Matthew is survived by his parents, Jennifer and Eric Geery, and his sister Willow Geery, in addition to his grandparents, Doug and Nancy Harris, Mildred and Greg Coalbank, and Terry Phipps; an uncle, David (Autmn) Harris; and an aunt, Maggie Phipps. He also leaves behind many cousins, all whom he loved deeply.

The family will greet friends at a visitation from 5 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, September 9, 2020, at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home, 105 4th Street SW. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 11, 2020, at Berean Church, 5299 E. University Ave., Pleasant Hill.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memorial of Matthew. A GoFundMe account has been set up to help defray funeral expenses (Remembering Matthew Harris). Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print