Matthew Timothy Gray, 27, of Defiance, passed away on  Sunday, March 15, 2015 at the Toledo Hospital in Toledo, Ohio, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident that occurred on Wednesday, February 18, 2015. He was a mighty warrior and fought hard for nearly a month, surprising the doctors and nurses repeatedly with his strength and his big, strong heart.

He was born on November 7, 1987 to Timothy and Debbie (Joice) Gray in Defiance, Ohio. He loved his family, especially his beautiful daughter and his three wonderful nieces. He loved all sports, whether playing or watching them, and would probably have filled out his bracket for March Madness already. He loved football, especially Ohio State Buckeyes. He loved to do anything outdoors, from cooking on the grill to cutting wood, and was very happy when he could do that in Southern Illinois.

Matthew is survived by his parents, Tim and Debbie Gray of Defiance, his beloved daughter, Elliette Roughton of  Oakwood, Ohio, sister, Amanda (Chris) Nelson of Defiance, grandmother, Maxine Gray Schilperoot of Archbold, grandparents, Pauline Joice Moritz and Roy Moritz of Oregon, Ohio, his beloved nieces, Regan, Lacey, and Jenna Nelson of Defiance, and his faithful dog "Clyde".

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Theodore Gray, Gerald Joice and Arnold Schilperoot, and aunt Nancy Schilperoot Sickmiller.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday, March 19, 2015 at Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, March 20, 2015 at the funeral  home, with Pastor Randy Wilson officiating. Burial will take place at Riverview Memory Gardens.

The family suggests memorial donations be made to a Trust Fund for Elliette.