Obituary of Jade Elizabeth Matusow

Jade Elizabeth Matusow, a marvelous girl like no other in the entire world, died on October 30, 2022, at age 24, following a struggle with mental illness.

The daughter of Adam Joseph Matusow and Elizabeth Joann Howell, she was raised by her grandparents, Allen and Rosalynn Matusow, in Houston, Texas. She attended Lanier Middle School, and both HSPVA and Mirabeau B. Lamar High School.

Jade was an open, open-minded person who would try anything once. She had fathomless, sparkling blue eyes that mesmerized everyone she met, and an original, intelligent mind always brimming over with fascinating information and insights. She never failed to surprise.

She loved making art, riding horses, wearing outrageous outfits, twerking at inappropriate times, exploring every imaginable subculture and variety of music, and most of all, people. Throughout her life she made meaningful connections with people of all backgrounds, ages, views, and lifestyles. She loved people, and people loved her back.

Jade was adored by her entire family. If there was one thing we all agreed on, it was that Jade was amazing. We called her Jadey, Jude, Smorgasbord, Smorgy, and Pilfer. No one could make us laugh like Jade. From the first moment, she stole our hearts. Our love for her united us, and we will miss her forever.

Jade was preceded in death by her grandmother, Carolyn Davis. She is survived by her husband, Dayton Piña; aunts, Catherine Matusow and Sylvia Crowder; uncles Joseph Matusow, Eric Crowder, Jeff Balke, and Richard Britton; brother, Wally Ramirez; and countless other beloved friends and family members.

There will be a public service honoring Jade’s life at 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at Covenant Church, 4949 Caroline Street in Houston, Texas 77004.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Houston Coalition for the Homeless or the National Alliance on Mental Illness.