Stephen "Matthew" Wiggins III

Stephen "Matthew" Wiggins III, 32, of Charleston, South Carolina, left his earthly body on Monday, September 2, 2024 and passed away on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

Matthew was brought into the world on March 10, 1992 in Charleston, SC, to adoring parents Robin Wiggins (Lee) and Stephen Matthew Wiggins II.

From a young age, it was evident just how intelligent Matthew was. From honor roll every year, the gifted and talented program throughout school, to winning spelling and geography bees, he excelled academically all around. He went on to graduate from James Island High School in 2010. Matthew was described by his friends as larger than life. He knew no stranger and was always ready for the next adventure. He never missed a Carolina Panthers or Gamecocks football game, an opportunity to surf big waves during hurricane warnings, long-board through a parking garage, hit the gym, or disappear into a good book. 

Matthew went on to be accepted into the automotive program at Trident Technical College and became a highly skilled automotive mechanic. Boxing quickly became an outlet and passion for Matthew in the last years. He devoted much of his time to the gym and training. He passed this love to his beloved nephew, Landon, who he gave boxing lessons to. Matthew's heart was one made of gold. He would give the shirt off of his back to a stranger and always welcomed people with open arms. 

His friends rarely stayed "friends", they quickly became family to him. He was a devoted brother and protected his sisters fiercely. His mom and dad were his world, he loved them deeply and would do anything he could to help them. Matthew touched so many lives in his 32 years and will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved him.

Matthew is preceded in death by paternal grandparents Roscoe Mervin Wiggins and Dilish Uzee Coker Wiggins, and maternal grandparents Henry Cecil Lee and Janice Oneita Wise Lee. Also paternal uncle William Gerald WIggins, paternal aunt Barbara Blondine Glisson Doble and maternal uncle Scott Dixon Lee.

Matthew is survived by his sisters, Anna (Hunter) Oltmann and Catie (Robert) Leach, and parents, Stephen Wiggins II and Robin Wiggins. In addition to his nephew, Landon (9), and four nieces, Savannah (6), Kenley (5), Charlotte (2), and Hallie (1), he also leaves behind countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Due to the approaching wedding of his youngest sister, Matthew's family will receive friends in the coming weeks. A paddle-out is being planned at one of his favorite spots on Folly Beach, and specific details will be released as soon as possible. Matt would want them to pour their hearts and souls into Catie at this time, and the family wants to give him the same by allowing themselves the time to plan the perfect memorial that will truly embody who he was as a person. Thank you all for your patience, understanding, kind words, and generosity as they navigate through their new normal.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wake Up Carolina at wakeupcarolina.org.