Tragic Loss in Memphis: Wasp Sting Claims Life of Expectant Father
In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a community is grieving the unexpected loss of a beloved husband and father. Matt Johnson, age 40, tragically passed away after being stung by a wasp, a circumstance that highlights the unforeseen dangers of nature. His wife, who is just weeks away from giving birth to their second child, is now left to navigate life without him.
A Sudden Accident
Last Friday, Johnson was out in the West Memphis area checking his duck blind when he accidentally disturbed a wasp nest. Those who know him, like his close friend Patrick Wredling, indicate that he developed an allergy to wasp stings as an adult. “He always carried his EpiPen with him,” Wredling said, emphasizing that Johnson, known for his larger-than-life personality, would never have expected something like this to happen to him. “He’s a big old beast of a guy, you know. So, it’s wild that a bug bite could do something like this.”
Emergency Response
Upon being stung, Johnson quickly acted. He administered his EpiPen and called 911, but due to their remote location, getting help was tricky. “They were out in the middle of nowhere,” Wredling explained. Eventually, Johnson managed to meet the ambulance, but Wredling shared that he was unconscious by the time he got to the hospital.
Leaving Behind a Family
Matt Johnson was not only the co-owner of a trucking company called Southern Xpress; he was also a devoted husband and father. He leaves behind a wife and their 3-year-old son, and with another little boy on the way, already named Cole, the family now faces the daunting task of moving forward.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Wredling. “His wife is due in just three weeks. It’s just not something you ever expect.” Johnson was known for dressing his older son in cowboy boots and jeans, something his friends believe would have also been the case for little Cole.
A Community Coming Together
In the wake of this tragic event, Wredling wasn’t going to sit idle. He set up a GoFundMe page to help Johnson’s family cope with the financial stress that comes with such an unexpected loss. “Johnson was the primary breadwinner, and the last thing his wife should worry about is money,” said Wredling, who hopes that the community will rally to support them.
So far, the GoFundMe has raised over $30,000, a testament to the generous spirit of the community. “It’s great. People are just so generous, and he would be the first one to donate to something like this himself,” Wredling noted. “I think things like that come back when you treat people right your whole life and have people’s back.”
Celebrating a Life Well-Lived
Matt Johnson was more than just a man; he was a figure of faith and camaraderie who rarely met a stranger. Those who knew him well feel that it’s important to celebrate his life rather than solely mourn his passing. As the family prepares for the arrival of baby Cole, friends and family plan a celebration of Johnson’s life to honor his memory.
Looking Ahead
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of how quickly life can change and the importance of cherishing each moment. For the Johnson family, and the community of Memphis, this is undoubtedly a challenging time. But with the support of their friends, colleagues, and strangers alike, they might find a way to navigate the path ahead.
As they wait for Cole’s safe arrival, the memory of Matt Johnson will undoubtedly linger, reminding everyone of the preciousness of family and life.
