Matthew McConnell

Matthew Arthur McConnell, 26, passed away on April 24, 2022 at his home in Grove City, Ohio. He was born on January 20, 1996, in Columbus, Ohio to Michael McConnell and Kimberly Shoaf.

Matthew was a healthy, thriving baby until the age of 11 months when he was involved in an accident at a babysitter’s home that left him permanently disabled. He was not expected to live for more than a few years, but he chose to prove those predictions wrong and lived a full and happy life thanks to the support of his family and the professionals who advocated endlessly for him.

Matthew graduated from Central Crossing High School through the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities collaborative program where he made many life-long friends. Throughout the years, he enjoyed watching his brother play soccer, travelled on family vacations, enjoyed his “floaty” time in his backyard pool, and played Buddy Ball during the program’s inaugural season. A devoted Buckeye fan, he also attended several OSU football and basketball games.

Although Matthew was never able to speak words, he found a way to speak volumes to people through his experiences and his incredible will to live. Even during tough times, he always managed to brighten up a room with his incredible smile and twinkling eyes. His impact on others, including the medical world, have paved the way to improve services and supports for others like him.