Obituary of Matthew Ryan Cowart

South Carolina Cremation Society

3223 Sunset Blvd., Suite 104

West Columbia, SC 29169

(800) 758-9115

Obituary for Matthew Ryan Cowart July, 1979 - December, 2020 Matthew “Ryan” Cowart, 41, passed away at his residence in Lexington SC following a valiant battle with seizures. Ryan leaves behind his beloved wife of 5 years, Shelli Denice Cowart, who he cherished and adored for over 17 years. Ryan also leaves behind his beloved fur babies Rupert, Buster, Millie and Jackson, a loving step daughter Emily Sapp, his caring and devoted parents Gail Elks; proceeding him in death; Ronnie Cowart, loyal sisters Mimi Smoak and Charity Harris, a brotherly nephew Stetson Smoak, his extended family and countless friends.

Ryan graduated from Lexington High School where he was a member of the Air Force JROTC. He later studied programing language at Georgia Tech University. Ryan had a passion for tattoos, Duke basketball, Dallas Cowboys, Atlanta Braves, PlayStation video games, a wide spectrum of music, philosophy and criminal investigation shows of all types. Ryan also enjoyed star gazing, being outside, his animals, ketchup, French fries and a well burnt T-Bone steak.

Ryan, loving known by his nicknames Gimp and Ryno, had a beautiful smile, infectious laugh, positive outlook on life and a kind spirit. He taught everyone who knew him how to live and thrive through adversity. Ryan was a giving man. He gave his heart, his time, his ear and his infectious humor to all who knew him. He would give when he had nothing to give but himself. He was always there to help anyone in need in any way that he could. His life touched so many and his generosity will have a lifelong impact those who knew him long after his untimely passing. Ryan's passion for life will live on through those who were lucky to know him.

Ryan was known for 2 profound statements. He held very close to his heart that he would want those of us with heavy hearts to be remember them

“The choices we make dictate the lives we lead”

“It’s not what happens to us but how we react to it”

In lieu of flowers; Ryan would have been honored if memorial contributions were made to the place where met the 2nd love of his life, Rupert. Please donate in loving memory of Ryan Cowart to;

Clayton County Animal Control 3199 Anvilblock Rd, Ellenwood, GA 30294. 770-603-4199. https://www.facebook.com/notes/1792480000766468/

Ryan was an advocate of saving pit bulls, Clayton County is one of the few shelters that allowed them to be saved and adopted. He would encourage anyone to adopt a pet and save a live.

Ryan’s final arrangements were entrusted with the South Carolina Cremation Society. Due to covid concerns, A celebration of life gathering will be arranged by his wife for a later date. Until it's safe to gather, family & friends can leave their condolences on Ryan's online memorial: https://southcarolinacremation.com