Matthew "Matt" Puhlick

"A beloved husband, devoted father, dedicated educator, and treasured friend, Matt's greatest accomplishment was the love he shared and the lives he helped shape."

Matthew "Matt" Puhlick, 55, of Williamsburg, Virginia, passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends. A devoted husband, father, educator, mentor, and lifelong learner, Matt leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and deep commitment to the people he loved.

Born in Norwich, Connecticut, Matt carried New England close to his heart throughout his life. He especially loved Mystic, Connecticut, the ocean, and anything nautical. Whether he was out enjoying a day by the water or debating the merits of a cold lobster roll versus a hot one (Jo, Kelly, and Luther preferred hot, but he preferred cold! And by the way, they have the clown cup), Matt found joy and peace near the sea.

Above all, Matt's greatest love was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Jo, and their three children, Markham, Macie, and Mahlen, who were the absolute center of his world. Much of his time and energy were spent bringing his family together and creating lasting traditions. One of his favorites was the annual adventure of finding the perfect Christmas tree and searching for the elusive pickle ornament on Christmas morning. He simply loved attending Mahlen’s lacrosse games, watching Markham’s musicals, and admiring Macie’s beautiful artwork. He loved traveling with his family, whether it was to Key Largo to scuba dive and soak up the tropical sun while listening to Jimmy Buffett, or a short trek over to Roanoke to visit Mamaw, his very loved sisters-in-law Karen and Jenny, and the rest of Jo’s family that he - and they - adopted as his own. He truly loved anything that meant he was spending time with his wife, kids, family, and friends to laugh and create memories together.

Matt was known for his curiosity and dedication to lifelong learning. He was immensely proud of earning his doctorate from Northeastern University and never stopped pursuing new knowledge and personal growth. As an educator, he found purpose in helping young people discover a love of reading and learning.

During his time at Magruder Elementary School, Matt served as the school's library media specialist and worked passionately to build and expand the library program, creating opportunities that enriched the lives of countless students. He was particularly grateful for dedicated volunteers such as Amber Richter and Janie Bason, who were instrumental in helping the library run like a well-oiled machine. He took deep pride in the school's morning show and his collaboration with Madi Morgan (proudly serving as her work dad and BFF), whose creativity and artistic talents helped the program flourish. Matt's enthusiasm for literacy extended beyond the classroom, as he actively sought opportunities to connect students with authors and books. One of his proudest recent accomplishments was securing an upcoming visit from a renowned children's book author for the school's students. The author has committed to gifting a signed book to every student, ensuring that each child leaves with a book of their own—an outcome that perfectly reflects Matt's belief that putting books into the hands of children could change lives.

Beyond his professional achievements, Matt took great pride in guiding and supporting the success of new and aspiring educators. He was particularly proud of Ashley Dewey, who was recently hired as the physical education teacher at Magruder Elementary School.

Matt's friends and family will remember his enthusiasm for bargains, hidden treasures, and a good snack. Whether browsing Costco, exploring Habitat for Humanity ReStores, hunting for unique finds, or procuring a favorite Wunderbar bologna sandwich, he found happiness in life's simple pleasures and took great delight in sharing those discoveries with others.

Matt's life was defined not by what he accumulated, but by the relationships he nurtured, the students he inspired, and the family he cherished. He believed in helping others achieve their potential, celebrating their successes, and finding joy in everyday moments.

Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, his love, wisdom, humor, and generous spirit will continue to live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, colleagues, students, and the many lives he touched throughout his journey.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Catholic Mass and reception.  In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored if you would donate to the Dr. Puhlick Memorial Fund for Literacy and Learning. This fund will honor Matt and create a legacy that puts books into students’ hands, supports author visits, and ensures that his passion lives on. Donations can be made to the fund through the York Foundation for Public Education, Inc., by indicating that the donation is directed to Matt’s memorial fund.

Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com

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