Matthew Shawn Parkhurst's Obituary
Matthew Shawn Parkhurst, aged 57, passed away on June 25, 2024, in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Born on February 9, 1967, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Matthew was a spirited and beloved figure in both his personal and professional life.
Matthew attended Katella High School in Anaheim, CA and furthered his education at Santa Rosa Junior College before attending California State University, Northridge. His academic pursuits laid a strong foundation for his distinguished career as a professor of American Sign Language (ASL) and a freelance sign language interpreter.
During his career, Matthew taught at the University of Arkansas, City College of San Francisco, and University of San Francisco. He also worked as a video relay interpreter at Purple Communications. Renowned for his expertise, he interpreted in various settings, including educational, legal, medical, religious, platform, and entertainment. He interpreted for notable artists, including: Pat Benatar, Macy Gray, Patti LaBelle, Third Eye Blind, and Cyndi Lauper. Matthew also served as a language coach on the set of the film "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," with Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.
Before his professional career, Matthew served in the Navy, where he embraced the values of dedication and service. His military background informed much of his disciplined yet passionate approach to his career and personal endeavors.
Known as the life of the party, Matthew was cherished for his vibrant personality and inclusive spirit. He was the self-proclaimed favorite child of his late mother, Mary, and carried the title of favorite uncle with pride. Matthew's passion for life was evident in his dedication to his family, friends, and the ASL and PRIDE communities.
Matthew is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Laura and Brendan Wallace, his son, Ryan Thurman; siblings Patty Fitchert, Cheryl Kasper, Steve Parkhurst, Debbie Parkhurst, Vickie Lajoie, Holly Beausoleil, and Charles Parkhurst; grandchildren Ryla, Gabe, Cedrych, Beckett, and Lillian; and his beloved dogs, Riley and Wyatt. He was preceded in death by his spouse, Eddie Connor Jr., his parents, Mary and Charles Parkhurst, and his brother, Mike Parkhurst.
Graveside service will be 12:30, Friday, July 19, 2024, at Fayetteville National Cemetery. Donations can be made to a scholarship fund for students at the University of Arkansas in the ASL community. The family will provide more details at a later date. A celebration of life will be 10:00, Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home in Fayetteville.
What’s your fondest memory of Matthew?
What’s a lesson you learned from Matthew?
Share a story where Matthew's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Matthew you’ll never forget.
How did Matthew make you smile?
