LCDR Matthew Guy Herbaugh

Matthew Guy Herbaugh, age 40, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 26th in his home in Windsor, Virginia, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on January 8, 1986, in Winchester, Virginia, Matthew was the son of Thomas and Kathy Herbaugh. He grew up in Aynor, South Carolina, where he developed a passion for soccer, music, and service through his involvement in JROTC, Boy Scouts of America, and Palmetto Boys State.

Matthew was a proud 2008 graduate of the United States Naval Academy and dedicated 18 years to serving his country in the United States military rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Throughout his distinguished military career, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to duty. In recognition of his outstanding service, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his instrumental role as Air Planner for the United States Second Fleet.

Matthew brought extensive expertise to his work through years of service in fleet air operations, logging more than 925 flight hours in E-2 aircraft, including combat-zone operations. He also served as a Military Liaison Officer supporting United Nations stabilization efforts in the Central African Republic and played a key role in advancing fleet aviation capabilities through the transition to the E-2D platform. Matthew’s military service was marked by unwavering dedication, perseverance, and honor.

A devoted Christian, Matthew was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Smithfield, Virginia, where he and his wife, Katelyn Herbaugh, were married.

Matthew will be remembered for his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and love of karaoke — especially his memorable performances of Bohemian Rhapsody. He also had a gift for bringing people together and was known by many as the “host with the most,” always creating gatherings filled with laughter, warmth, and connection.

Matthew is survived by his beloved wife, Katelyn (Belin) Herbaugh; his two sons, Kenneth and Benjamin Herbaugh; his parents, Thomas and Kathy Herbaugh; and his sister, Sarah Herbaugh, along with his nephew, Skylar Herbaugh. Matthew was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elma Baker of Abingdon, MD and Cecil and Sylvia Herbaugh of Winchester, VA; as well as his uncles, Norman Baker, Eddie Baker, and Thomas Baker.

A celebration of life will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church 201 Cedar St, Smithfield, VA 23430 on May 9th, 2026 at 2pm. The family will receive friends following the service in the FAC at Trinity.  Following the services the family also invites family and friends to the home of Matthew and Katelyn Herbaugh. Burial will be held at a later date at Albert G. Horton Jr. Veterans Cemetery, Suffolk, VA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Sail Beyond Cancer (https://form.jotform.com/250424419565155).

Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com