Matthew Nicholas Hylton

Matthew Nicholas Hylton was born on February 2, 1981, in Kansas City, Missouri. A remarkable life was lived by this intelligent and determined individual, creating a legacy of strength that will not be forgotten. He passed away at home on October 22, 2024 surrounded by the love of his family.

Matt kicked off his academic journey being homeschooled by his mother Karen until the ninth grade, after which he breezed through Liberty High School. It seems that learning was just a warm-up drill for him, as he later tackled a bachelor’s degree in Biology at UMKC, proving that he was as sharp as they come. He thrived on challenges and relished every opportunity to problem-solve.

As man of dedication, Matt began his career in the HVAC industry, finding joy in the technical challenges and problem-solving aspects of the job. But Matt didn’t forget what he learned from his dad Russell growing up. His passion led him into sales and into the laundry mat world, where he took pride in being on the forefront of advancements. The strong bonds he forged with his father Russel exemplified a mutual respect and shared passion. Immersed in the laundry mat industry, Matt not only followed in his father's footsteps but also carved his own path, innovating and contributing significantly to the field. The lessons learned and shared were invaluable. His contributions to the industry did not go unnoticed; he received numerous community awards, made appearances on podcasts, participated in panels and conferences, and recently began consulting. One of his proudest achievements was being honored as the first winner of the prestigious 2024 Laundry Mat Elevate Award, a recognition of innovative thinking and community building.

A clean consumer and weights-lifting enthusiast, Matt found massive joy in bodybuilding, snagging wins in multiple competitions in the 40-and-older category. “He was the strongest person I knew,” one friend said, recalling his energy and zest for everything he did. 

Speaking of love, him and Jennifer enjoyed a life of love and health. Always carving out time for good food and nice restaurants. To his son Ethan, Matt was not just ‘Dad’ but the most enthusiastic Lego-building, karate-training, train-loving, toy-tool-fixing father around. Matt, Russel and Ethan embarked on countless kid-approved adventures often at the family-owned laundry mats. 

Matt is preceded in death by his mother Karen Hylton. He is survived by his loving wife Jennifer Hylton, son Ethan Russell Hylton, Parents Russell and Lynn Hylton, sister Lana Kipping (Bryan), brothers Marshall Hylton and Jackson Hylton. 

Matt's character was defined by his drive, intelligence and a genuine love for his family and community. Friends and family are invited to remember Matt during the visitation and celebration of life on October 26, 2024, at Park Lawn Northland Chapel, located in Liberty, Missouri. The visitation will begin at 2:00 PM, followed by the celebration of life at 3:00 PM.