Centenary Family Mourns Loss of Matthew Campbell

SHREVEPORT, La. — Matthew Campbell finished his earthly race Sunday morning at 5:35 a.m. at Children's Medical Center in Dallas. Matthew fought a hard fight and was surrounded by his family.

According to Betsy Eaves, Centenary College Chaplain, the "Cheer on Matthew" video that was filmed on Friday for Matthew, began playing in his room at 10 a.m. on Saturday and played constantly until his death. "During the day and into the night, the video brought great joy and comfort to Matthew and his family," said Eaves. "They were overwhelmed by the love and support speaking often of their Centenary family."

As we have for many months, we keep the Campbell family in our thoughts and prayers during this time.

Matthew Campbell is the son of long-time Centenary conference and facilities coordinator Francine Campbell. Matthew was born with hypoplastic right heart syndrome, meaning he did not have a right ventricle. He received his first heart transplant Nov. 17, but the new heart never regained enough strength to keep up with his needs and he was put on the transplant list again. On Dec. 2, the Youree Drive Middle School student and aspiring chef underwent a 10-hour double transplant surgery for the new heart and a kidney.

On Feb. 4, local TV station KTBS ran a special tribute to Matthew which you can watch online.

Details on the funeral arrangements are now available.