Matthew Scott Rankin entered into eternal life on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. He was born on Oct. 8, 1996, in Lexington and raised in Midway.
He was a loyal son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew and cousin, and was a friend to so many. Matthew had a generous heart and infectious smile. He loved being outdoors fishing, hiking, boating and spending time with family and friends. He was proud of the landscaping business he built over five years ago.
Matthew is survived by his parents, Michael and Rhonda Rankin; brother, Zachary (Jennifer) Rankin; niece, Lily Rankin; nephew, Luke Rankin; brother, Hayden (Briana) Rankin; paternal grandmother, Helen Puckett; aunt, Debbie (Jimmy) Trayner Price; cousin, Chad (Sara) Trayner; uncle, Bob Rankin; aunt, Debbie Rankin; and a host of extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Ronald and Jane Trayner, and paternal grandfather, Robert Puckett.
While our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in knowing that Matthew is now at rest in the presence of the Lord, free from pain and filled with eternal peace. He was baptized on Dec. 24, 2006, at Midway Baptist Church.
Visitation will be Thursday, Oct. 22, from 4 to 7 p.m., and a Celebration of Life will begin at 7 p.m. at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, 480 Duckers Road, Midway, KY 40347.
Honorary pallbearers are Chad Trayner, Brandon Hood, Demond Wilson, Joseph Steele, Hunter Reed and Agustin Zambrano.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Matthew’s honor to one of the following organizations: Brothers’ Run (https://www.brothersrun.com/) or Rae of Sunshine (https://www.raeofsunshineky.org). Brothers’ Run is dedicated to supporting adolescent mental health and suicide prevention programs in schools and communities. Rae of Sunshine Foundation works to eliminate mental health stigma and support youth emotional well-being through acts of kindness, school initiatives and community outreach.
Friends and family are encouraged to leave messages of condolence and share memories on Matthew’s tribute wall at www.blackburnandward.com.
Rankin
