Matthew Thomas McElhaney (Matt)

Matthew Thomas McElhaney (Matt), age 43, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Matt was a longtime resident of Pascagoula, Mississippi, and was currently residing in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. He was a 2001 graduate of Pascagoula High School. He attended Meridian Community College, where he played tennis on full scholarship and was coached by his long-term mentor, Wanda McPhail, who had a lasting influence on his life. Matt then continued with his higher education at the University of Mississippi with a degree in Criminal Justice.

Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas LeRoy “Roy” and Mary Margaret Capps Williams, Michael and Virginia McElhaney, and his uncle, Rick Williams.

Survivors include the love of his life, Kelly McLain McElhaney; three children, Aaron Lee McElhaney (Erin Miller), Capps Lee McElhaney, and Gryder James Allen (Stepson); parents, Michael James McElhaney, Jr., and Diane Williams McElhaney; and his siblings, Michael James McElhaney III, Melissa Schnoor (Sonny Landsiedel and Ryan Schnoor former husband). Matt had many nephews and nieces that held a very special bond with him: Haidyn McElhaney, Mary Elizabeth McElhaney, Jack Thomas Schnoor, Luke Schnoor, Wyatt Schnoor, Mary Ryan Schnoor, Kennedy Butler and Davis Butler. He also adored his uncles, aunts, many cousins, and extended family members. Matt is also survived by his beloved dog Macs who was often by his side at the office and greeted customers with the same warmth Matt did.

Matt cherished his many lifelong friendships and was faithful about reaching out for birthdays and special occasions, even if his timing was a day early or day late. He always put others before himself and was the life of every party he attended. Matt knew he had one short life to live, and he lived it to the fullest - approaching each day with passion, generosity, and enthusiasm that was contagious to all who knew him.

When Matt wasn’t running his business, his life revolved around his children and their shared love of sports. As a proud father the name of his insurance agency holds special meaning. MAC’s Coastal Insurance is named after his kids’ initials and is also a nod to his dad, who goes by the nickname “Mac.”

Community involvement is another cornerstone of his life and business. He regularly coached children’s sports teams and never said no to a community sponsorship. For Matt it was always about leaving a legacy not just for his family but for the community he loved.

Service arrangements will be shared with family & friends once arrangements are finalized. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to The Immune Deficiency Foundation at www.primaryimmune.org

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Matthew Thomas McElhaney (Matt).