Matthew James Evangelist

On Friday, February 12, 2021, Matthew James Evangelist, loving husband and father, passed away at the age of 52. He was born on March 4, 1968 to Mario and Patricia (Young) Evangelist. He was a graduate of Frankford High School and Temple University. On July 8, 2008 he married his beloved wife Karen (Boss). Together they have two children Matthew, 9 and Jenna, 11. He was preceded in death by his mother Patricia. He is also survived by his father Mario Evangelist, his sister Diane Grimmie (John, predeceased), his brothers Mario, Mark (Carole), and Michael (Michelle). In laws Tom and Kathleen Maloney, Jay and Shannon Boss, Brian and Rachel Boss and many nieces, nephews and cousins.Matt touched many lives throughout his careers in bartending, teaching, coaching and sales. But Matt's greatest passions in life were friends, family and football. He was the quintessential family man who never missed a family function. His biggest passion was being a father. When Matt was not working, he was spending time with his kids watching them play or helping to coach his son's football team. He was well known for his calming nature and would always be a voice of reason or offer encouraging words to anyone who met him. He was reliable not only to family, but his whole network of friends who eagerly cheered him on during his brave battle. His involvement with the community included helping to coach youth football as well as other sports. Matt encouraged many young children to be the best they could not only in sports, but in life. For many years Matt organized the annual Shriners Hospital Toys for Tots Drive. The world was a better place because of his actions. Matt was well known for his quick wit and infectious smile which lit up any room he entered. He will be greatly missed.Family, friends, fellow coworkers, coaches, players, teammates, and all who loved Matty are invited to celebrate his life on Saturday February 20th from 9 AM to 10:45 AM in Christ the King Church, 3252 Chesterfield Road and attend his funeral mass which will begin at 11 AM. Matty's interment will be held privately.If you plan on attending Matty's life celebration please wear your mask and remain socially distant. Matty's family totally understands if you'd prefer to just share your fondest memories below on Matty's obituary page or Facebook or message the family directly and not attend his funeral, they'll just see you in the coming months or this summer.In lieu of flowers, let's continue to honor Matty's legacy and life and spread your love and generosity to his children by visiting ME19. Arrangements by John J. Barnes, Supervisor - McCafferty Sweeney Slabinski Barnes Funerals and Cremations of Torresdale Avenue, 215.333.0500. For further information please visit PhillyFunerals.com