Atlanta, Georgia — “Silenced Dreams”: Community Mourns the Sudden Passing of 38-Year-Old Matthew Price, Devoted Father and Beloved Friend, Following Overdose

Atlanta, Georgia — “Silenced Dreams”: Community Mourns the Sudden Passing of 38-Year-Old Matthew Price, Devoted Father and Beloved Friend, Following Overdose

ATLANTA, GA (October 21, 2025) — A wave of grief and disbelief has swept across Atlanta as friends, family, and loved ones mourn the tragic and untimely passing of Matthew Price, a 38-year-old father whose life was cut short by an overdose — just one day after celebrating his birthday. The devastating news has left those who knew him heartbroken, struggling to comprehend how someone so full of warmth, humor, and love could be gone so suddenly.

According to early reports, Matthew Price was found deceased at his Atlanta home early Tuesday morning, October 21, 2025. Law enforcement officials confirmed the cause of death as an apparent overdose. The loss has been described by friends and family as both “shocking” and “unbearably painful,” especially as it came only 24 hours after Matthew marked his 38th birthday surrounded by loved ones.

Born and raised in Fayette County, Matthew attended Fayette County High School, where he was known for his easygoing personality, charm, and sharp sense of humor. After graduation, he built his life in Atlanta — a city he loved deeply — where he worked hard, raised his son, and became a pillar of strength for those closest to him.

“Matthew had this way of making everyone feel seen,” said longtime friend Ryan Thompson. “He could walk into a room and instantly light it up. He loved hard, laughed loud, and lived with his whole heart.”

Those who knew Matthew describe him as a devoted father, whose world revolved around his 17-year-old son, Matthew Price Jr.. The two shared an unbreakable bond — from weekend basketball games and fishing trips to late-night talks about life and dreams. Friends say Matthew’s greatest joy was watching his son grow into a young man, and his deepest wish was to see him succeed.

“He was the best dad,” said a family member through tears. “Everything he did, he did for Junior. He worked hard to provide, to guide, and to make sure his son always knew he was loved.”

While Matthew’s life was filled with laughter and love, those close to him also knew he faced struggles — quiet battles that he carried with courage, often shielding others from his pain. His passing has sparked heartfelt conversations in the Atlanta community about the ongoing opioid and substance abuse crisis, and the importance of compassion and understanding for those fighting unseen demons.

“Addiction doesn’t define a person,” said family friend Lisa Carter. “Matthew was more than his struggles. He was a father, a friend, a brother, and a beautiful soul who cared deeply for everyone around him. His life mattered — and his story deserves to be remembered with love, not judgment.”

As news of Matthew’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in across social media. Photos, heartfelt messages, and memories flooded timelines — snapshots of a life that, while far too short, was filled with laughter, generosity, and love. Friends remembered his contagious smile, his ability to make anyone laugh, and his loyalty to those he cared about.

“He had a heart of gold,” one post read. “No matter how bad his own day was, he’d still check in to make sure you were okay.”

A candlelight vigil is being planned near Piedmont Park, a place Matthew often visited to clear his mind and find peace. Friends and family are expected to gather to honor his memory, share stories, and celebrate the joy he brought into their lives.

The Price family has asked for privacy as they navigate this devastating loss but expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community. They have also encouraged anyone struggling with addiction or mental health challenges to seek help — a message they hope will serve as Matthew’s lasting legacy.

“If his story can save even one life, then his light continues to shine,” said his mother. “We’ve lost a beautiful soul, but we refuse to let his life end in silence.”

A memorial service will be announced in the coming days, where loved ones will come together to celebrate Matthew’s life — a life marked by kindness, laughter, and love.

Though his passing has left an emptiness that words can scarcely describe, Matthew Price’s memory will live on through his son, his family, and the countless hearts he touched.

“Silenced dreams, but never forgotten — Matthew, your laughter, your love, and your light will forever echo in our hearts.”