As writers, we strive to have the right words.
Whether it’s to define a particular place or happenings in time, usually we can.
Last week, as a lifelong writer, I had no words when I learned of the passing of Matthew Osborne – our leader, longtime editor, a family man, husband and father to three children. I still really can’t find the words.
But to put it simply, I came up under Matthew early in my career. He gave me foundational, journalistic knowledge and wisdom that will follow me for the entirety of my life. We stayed in touch no matter where I was for the last three years. He was a coach, a mentor, a model journalist, a hero and one of my best friends.
He gave me life lessons, usually in a subtle yet clever and comedic way that no one else I’ve ever known could seem to match. His way with words was unparalleled. That’s probably why he was always great at what he did, all across the eastern U.S. He made me laugh at times when laughing was the furthest thing from my mind. He always believed in me, no matter what.
Matthew Osborne was the kind of man who can never be replaced. He was single-handedly the best editor and leader I’d ever had, and was one of the best people I’ve ever known.
Whether you knew him or not, he loved his family. He loved people. He loved the world. He loved sports. He loved what he did. And he did it better than anyone I’ve ever worked with. He loved the Habersham County community, and he’d committed his life to understanding and defining it.
In retrospect, his words will define both crucial and unprecedented times in Habersham County for the last five years. Nothing will ever be the same without Matthew. But I know I’m not alone in those who will carry on the touch of his influence for our remaining years on earth.
As a writer, these are the words I have. But they will never do justice to the man Matthew Osborne was. I don’t have the words for that.
Matthew always had the words.
Please donate to support Matthew’s children to be able to attend college without debt – something that was always very important to him at: https://gofund.me/a3fe812a