Matthew William Fishbourne

Matthew William Fishbourne, born on March 13, 1986, in Lafayette, Louisiana, passed away on September 6, 2026. Known for his unwavering dedication, adventurous spirit, and love for the great outdoors, Matthew leaves behind a legacy of bravery and compassion that will be cherished by all who knew him. Matthew was the beloved son of William Francis Fishbourne JR., who instilled in him a deep appreciation for nature and the importance of serving others. Growing up in the vibrant community of Lafayette, Matthew developed a love for hunting, spending countless hours exploring the wilderness around him, and honing his skills as an avid outdoorsman. Matthew's educational journey began at West Side High School, where he graduated with a passion for hands-on learning. He furthered his education by attending trade school for HVAC, which equipped him with practical skills that he would utilize throughout his life. Driven by a strong desire to make a difference, Matthew embarked on a career as a DNR Hotshot Wildland Firefighter, dedicating over eight years of his life to protecting the environment and communities from the devastating impacts of wildfires. His courage, resilience, and commitment to his fellow firefighters earned him the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of working alongside him. In January of 2019, Matthew married Shanda Marie Schluneger, with whom he shared a beautiful chapter of his life. Though their paths eventually diverged, they remained connected through their cherished daughter, Dani Rae McGhee, who was the light of Matthew's life. Matthew's love for his family and friends was evident in every interaction, and he took great pride in being a father. His gentle guidance, endless support, and infectious laughter will forever be remembered by Dani and those who were fortunate enough to call him a friend. A private funeral ceremony will be held to honor Matthew's life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Matthew's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, a cause close to his heart. This organization, based in Jacksonville, Florida, provides support and assistance to wounded veterans and their families, embodying the spirit of service and sacrifice that Matthew held dear. Matthew William Fishbourne will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him. His adventurous spirit, dedication to service, and love for the natural world will continue to inspire those who were touched by his life.