We unexpectedly lost our husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Matthew Richard Desmond, on August 6, 2019. He was only 58 years old.

Matt was born here in Dallas, Texas, on April 24, 1961, to Meredith and Richard "Dick" Desmond.

After a lengthy discussion one evening, he and Genevieve hopped on a plane and were married in Las Vegas on December 23, 2000. His friends and colleagues realized just how spontaneous Matt could be when it came to true love. They had two amazing daughters – Eleanor "Nora" Jane Desmond born on February 16, 2002 and Catherine "Cate" T. Desmond on February 26, 2007.

Matt and his brothers grew up in sunny California. Matt graduated from UCLA undergrad, obtained his law degree from the University of San Diego, and then graduated from USC with his MBA in Finance. Matt had the rare distinction of holding bar licenses from both California and New York. He started his career developing real estate at Kmart and worked there for over a decade. It was at Kmart that Matt and Genevieve met.

While Matt loved the challenge of real estate development, his real passion was his family. His two daughters were the light of his life and his touchstone. The joy he found in being a father cannot be put into words. Planning outings with his girls (and their friends) brought him great happiness.

As his wife, I can promise you no better man lived. He was whip smart, kind, wickedly funny, and decent – a real gentleman. With his wicked sense of humor and no matter the circumstances, he could always make me laugh. His sense of fun and adventure will be missed by his family.

Matt loved to travel and had managed to visit 49 States, almost two dozen countries and four continents.

Matt is survived by his wife, Genevieve, daughters – Nora and Cate, his mother, Meredith, and his brothers, Richard and Chris Desmond.

Matt touched so many people. He was always courteous, kind, and gentle. Matt will be sorely missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

MATTHEW 5: 8

"Blessed are the pure of heart… for they shall see God"