Madison “Matt” Jacob Jefferson, age 38, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at his home. Matt was born Thursday, June 4, 1987, to David Lewis Jefferson and Julie Ann Grantz Vallier in Talihina, Oklahoma.
Matt lived his life with courage, purpose, and a spirit of adventure that inspired everyone around him. A proud United States Marine Sergeant, he honorably served his country as a Scout Sniper during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart, an honor he carried with great pride alongside his outstanding military accomplishments, where he consistently ranked at the top of his classes. Though he was proud of his service to his country, Matt’s greatest pride and joy was his son, Jace. He loved taking him on adventures and living by his favorite motto, “Have fun, it’s the only life we get.” Matt embraced life to the fullest, finding happiness in rock climbing, hunting, fishing, kayaking, and searching for arrowheads. He worked for Quanta Services for three years and brought the same dedication and determination to his work that he did to every aspect of his life. Most importantly, Matt had accepted the Lord as his Savior and was saved and baptized. His fearless spirit, deep love for his family, and passion for life will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved him.
Matt is preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Lisa Carterby; one brother-in-law, Randy Bakenhus.
Matt is survived by his son, Jace Jefferson Bonofiglio of Surprise, Arizona; his six brothers sisters-in-law, Marvin and Ocean Jefferson of Smithville, Oklahoma; Edison Jefferson of Palestine, Texas, Lyndon and Debbie Jefferson of Gilmer, Texas, David Jefferson, Jr. of Keller, Texas, Phillip Jefferson of DeQueen, Arkansas, Bo Grantz of Ozark, Arkansas; five sisters, Tillis Johnson of Octavia, Oklahoma, Amber Grantz of Dubuque, Iowa, Reba Eubanks of Collinsville, Oklahoma, Gaythy Bakenhus of De Queen, Arkansas, and Melitta Robinson of Mena, Arkansas; special friends, Terry and Sheila Russell of Hot Springs, Arkansas; special nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.