Matthew Wayne Gillham

Matthew Wayne Gillham, 51, was born in Waco, TX on September 28, 1974 to Doyle & Cindy Gillham. He entered his heavenly home on January 28, 2026. Visitation will be Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Wade Funeral Home in Hubbard, TX. Service is Friday, Feb. 6 at 12:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Hubbard, TX followed by a graveside at 2:45 p.m. at Waco Memorial Park where he will be laid to rest next to his father. Reverend Ricky Woodall and Dr. J. Lee Whittington officiating.

Matt grew up in Woodway, TX and graduated from Midway High School in 1993. He excelled in all sports, but his great love was soccer. He attacked life as a soccer game – full force and full speed ahead. After graduation he attended several schools including Baylor. He always wanted to own his own business and in 2006 he bought a M.A.R.S. (Mobile Auto Repair System) franchise doing cosmetic repairs to cars and trucks. He was imaginative, creative and loved his work.

He had many friends in Waco, Arlington and Hubbard and was always there if they needed help. He loved to entertain and cook. He was especially proud of winning a Chili Cook Off Contest in Arlington and proudly displayed the trophy. He loved the Cowboys and went to many games while living in Arlington. He was a wonderful dad and loved his kids unconditionally. They took vacations to mountains and beaches and he made sure everyone had a great time. His legacy will be with them forever.

He was preceded in death by his father, Doyle Gillham. Matt was only 8, but had already developed a love of sports and the outdoors which he instilled in his children. Because he lost his dad so young, he made sure he was always there for his own. He also lost his step-father, Franklin Potts, who raised him and his brother as his own. Franklin passed away in 2024.

He is survived by his children: Tanner, Elle & Owen Gillham; mother, Cindy Potts; brother, Mark (Amy) Gillham; sister, Dawn (Russ) Hogue; former spouse of 17 years, Keely Wade Gillham and her parents, Mike and Amy Wade; step-brothers Marshall (Julie) & Darrell Potts; step-sister Heather (Fred) Petit; uncle Larry (Gail) Fuqua and many nieces, nephews & cousins.

Pallbearers are: Mark Gillham, Tanner Gillham, Owen Gillham, Kevin Crump, Byron Jackson, Robby Roberts, Jeff Gonzalez and Billy Kitchens.

Honorary pallbearers are: Derrick Gillham, Davis Gillham, Shane Gillham, Blake Wade, Dylan Scott and Cooper Scott.

Memorials may be made to Recovered and Free, 506 Hickory Avenue, Hubbard, Texas 76648.