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Matthew Ethridge Hilburn, 40, of Arlington, VA passed away on July 1, 2012. Beloved husband of Michelle Weiss Hilburn of Arlington, VA. Son of Glenn and Phyllis Hilburn of Frederick, MD. Brother of Joanne M. Hilburn-Sonnichsen and of Kristine C. Hilburn of Alexandria, VA. Grandchild of Paul Spencer Carter and Marie Imogene Jones Carter and the late Dora Marie Hilburn and Glenn E. Hilburn, Sr. of California. He will be remembered by many family members including loving aunts, uncles, cousins and nephews from Virginia and California as well as his brother-in-law, James Sonnichsen.

Born in Gainesville, Georgia, on December 4, 1971, Matt grew up in Frederick, Maryland, and graduated from Frederick High School in 1989. He was an Eagle Scout, a swimmer, and a visual artist. At Virginia Tech he studied engineering, yet earned a degree in history and English. He worked as a project manager in the technology side of legal support at Dewey & LeBoeuf, Howrey, and at CACI.

He delighted in deep and detailed conversations on almost any topic. He was a prodigious reader with a particular passion for history. He could speak with authority and without pretense on a multitude of subjects. He loved art, movies, gaming, and messing around with computers. Before marrying Michelle on June 1, 2008, Matt embraced the faith and traditions of Judaism with his characteristic sincerity and enthusiasm. Before long, he was teaching Jewish history to young children who knew him as "Moreh" (teacher) Matt. All who knew Matt will spend the rest of their lives remembering instances of his courage, compassion, curiosity, humor, and generosity of spirit.

A funeral service was held at Congregation Etz Hayim in Arlington, Va. He was buried at Shalom Memorial Park in Huntingdon Valley, Penn.The family welcomes contributions in Matt's honor to Congregation Etz Hayim, the head and neck cancer charity 9114HNC.org, or any organization supporting rainforest preservation.

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Messages left on the News-Post website​

To have an ounce of Matt's determination, loyalty, and honesty would be a gift to us all

Judy Dawson
Harpers Ferry

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To Michelle, Glenn and Phyllis and family,
We want you to know that although we could not be there, you have been and are always in our prayers. We are so sorry for your loss. Matthew will be missed and will always be loved and remembered. Love from your family in Montana, Idaho, Utah and California.
Carla Weiss
Missoula, Montana

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I would like to offer my deepest sympathy to you on the loss of your dear husband. It can be very difficult trying to cope with the death of your best friend in life. Our loving Father understands your pain. Please find comfort in knowing that God cares for you and gives care for widows. (James 1:27)
Denise
Riverdale, Maryland

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To Phylis, Glenn and Family,
May you find peace at this time of sorrow. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and always.
Julie Simms,
Frederick, Maryland

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To Michelle and Matt's entire family,
Deepest condolences on the loss of a wonderful husband, son, brother, and uncle. May his memory glow brightly for many years to come as you recall the loving, artistic, scholarly, erudite, and compassionate person Matt was. He will be missed by many more than you'll ever realize, and his positive impact on children will undoubtedly reverberate for many decades.

Hugs,
Carol Boyd Leon
(Etz Hayim Tot Shabbat leader)

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We are so sorry for your loss. may Matt's memory be a blessing
Susan & Barry Leiber
Phila, Pennsylvania

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To Phyllis, Glenn and Family,
May God be with you in the loss of your loved one. May God's peace replace your heartache with warm and loving memories.
Imogene Shoemaker Rowe

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