Jon Matthew Williamson

Jon Matthew Williamson, known affectionately as Matt or Matty, lost his courageous battle against pancreatic cancer on July 20, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia at the age of 48. Born on September 18, 1975, in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Matt grew up in Washington, Georgia. Matt grew into a person whose kindness, intelligence, generosity, and patience were as profound as his love for his wife, family, and friends.

Matt graduated from Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School in 1993 and went on to pursue further education at the University of Georgia, transferring from there to Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, to pursue his love of music where he was valedictorian of his class and earned an Associate's Degree in Audio Engineering. He continued his academic journey at Kennesaw State University, obtaining both Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Computer Science with honors.  His career as an audio engineer at Emory University's Schwartz Center for Performing Arts spanned over two decades, a testament to his dedication and expertise in his field. In recognition of his contributions, the sound booth at the Schwartz Center was named in Matt's honor with a plaque at the entrance.  He worked with many famous artists throughout his career, and a number of his recordings were played on National Public Radio.

Outside of his professional life, Matt was deeply passionate about music. He played guitar mostly for his own enjoyment but occasionally could be found jamming with friends or recording with a funk band. In addition to music, Matt loved playing with his Boston Terrier, Winnie, reading up on the latest technological advances, and laughing with loved ones.

Matt leaves behind his loving wife of 19 years, Alison Williamson, his father Wayne Williamson, his mother Sharon Williamson, and his sister Meredith Williamson (James Durkin). He was a cherished uncle to Bryant Gossett, Ansley Gossett, Andrew Gossett, Isabella Oliver, Emilia Oliver, Sean Durkin, and Michael Durkin. He was preceded in death by his grandparents J.W. and Lucy Williamson, Harvey and Bessie Skipper, and his beloved miniature dachshunds, Petey and Dooley.

Visitation will be held at Hopkins Funeral Home in Washington, Georgia, on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 2pm. Graveside service will follow in Resthaven cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Matt’s memory can be made to the Emory Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, an institution close to his heart, online at https://bit.ly/SCPA-donate or mailed to Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, 1700 N. Decatur Rd., Atlanta, GA 30322. Hopkins Funeral Home is assisting the family during this difficult time. Matt’s family would like to thank Pamela Askew for being a dutiful and compassionate caregiver to him during his illness. Matt's life was a melody of virtues and achievements that will resonate long after his passing.