Mr. Matthew Lee Huggins, age 52, of Dalton, Georgia, departed this life on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Emory University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Matthew was born on April 28, 1974, in Marietta, Georgia, to Fred and Vicki Henton Huggins. He first began a career in law enforcement where he worked for several years before leaving and dedicating more than twenty-five years of his life to a career he truly loved as a truck driver. Matthew took great pride in his work and the relationships he built throughout the years. When he was not on the road, he treasured spending time with his wife and caring for his beloved pets and riding motorcycles.

Matthew will be remembered for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and unwavering devotion to those he loved most. His family and friends will cherish the many memories they shared with him and the lasting impact he made on their lives.

In addition to his parents, Matthew is survived by his wife, Jessica Huggins, who was the love of his life and best friend for almost 18 years; his aunts and uncles, Tracy and Thomas Hayes and Linda and James Hawkins; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Joshua and Crystal Goforth and Jason and Heather Goforth; nephews and niece, Cade Goforth, Silas Goforth, and Eliza Goforth; cousins, Jennifer Hawkins and Jamii Caudle; and many other extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A memorial service to celebrate Matthew's life will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at Dalton First Church of the Nazarene (2325 Chattanooga Rd, Dalton, GA 30720), with Pastor Mark Amspaugh officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until the service hour.

Though his time here was far too short, Matthew's legacy of love, loyalty, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.Top of Form

Arrangements entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, 138 Melrose Dr., Dalton, GA 30721, 706-226-4002.

“Your Selected Independent Funeral Home”