James Matthew “Matt” Lushin

On Thursday March 12th, Matt Lushin was taken away from the people who knew and loved him most. He was born May 24th, 1978, in Kokomo, Indiana, the only son of Dawn Lushin and his stepfather, Gregg Manfredi.  Matt was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and father who carried a wicked sense of humor and kindhearted approach to life and those he loved. He is survived by his son, Leighton Miles Lushin (Kokomo); his mother, Dawn Lushin (Tim Claytor) Indianapolis; his Stepfather, Gregg Manfredi; his sister, Bella Manfredi; step brother, Ben Claytor (Kelsey Bartholomew); grandmother, Sandra Lushin (Kokomo); aunts and uncles,  Lori McQueary (Larry) of Indianapolis, Nikki Frazier (Chris) Kokomo, Paul (Sarah) Lushin of Indianapolis, and Chad Lushin (Alicia Rethlake) of Indianapolis. He was proceeded in death by his Grandfather Jean Paul Lushin who loved and help raise Matt.

Matt served many callings during his life, but none was more important than the parenting and raising of his son Leighton. He was an outstanding Father and worked very hard to see that Leighton was cared for and loved. The testament to a good man is the character of the children he raises. Matt exceeded in fatherhood and strived to be a model parent

Matt graduated from Kokomo High School and was a key partner with the real estate investment company, FLF Property. Matt was also a respected and accomplished member of the international poker community. He traveled the world competing in tournaments and built an impressive and successful career.

Matt’s unexpected passing leaves behind a presence that was truly larger than life. Matt was a bright light in every room he entered. He was brilliant, magnetic, and unforgettable.

His quick wit was a window into his expansive intellect, and his humor was constant and effortless. Matt never went anywhere without making people laugh. He had a rare gift: he could lift your spirit in an instant and take you away from your troubles. His insight and unique perspective, always on display, would often leave you both inspired and in awe.

Matt expressed himself not only through words, but through movement. Coordinated and rhythmic, he was an artist with his body. He excelled in martial arts, dance, and yoga, combining strength with grace. Seeing his 6'3" frame move effortlessly and light on his feet was inspiring as well as entertaining. He could certainly “cut a rug” as well as pack a punch. He was a natural athlete, and he also loved golf. Whether playing courses all over the country with his buddies or playing putt-putt with his son, Matt played it with both skill and joy.

Matt possessed a rare depth of thought. He was introspective, spiritual, philosophical, and relentlessly committed to self-improvement. Exceptionally intelligent and endlessly curious, he pursued knowledge with intention, often immersing himself in higher learning and big ideas. He believed deeply in leading by example for his son, modeling a life of growth, reflection, and purpose.

The loss of Matt is devastating beyond measure. So many are left grieving, hearts heavy with the weight of an absence that feels impossible to accept. His passing is an unimaginable loss, one that will be felt deeply and indelibly by all whose lives he touched.

Matt’s enduring legacy is his son, Leighton, the greatest joy of his life. Through him, Matt’s energy, humor, and heart will continue to shine.

His friend Ben Grise perhaps said it best: “You always knew you could hang out with him, and he’d put a smile on your face.” It is this remarkable ability to lift others that will forever define how Matt is remembered.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 am Friday, March 20, 2026, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3055 S. 200 West, Kokomo, with Rev. Fr. Chris Shocklee, the celebrant.  Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery.  A celebration of life gathering will be held following the burial at 1:30 pm Friday in the Terrace Room at St, Joan of Arc.  Friends are invited to visit with the family from 3 to 7 pm Thursday at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 West Lincoln Road, Kokomo.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Indiana Members Credit Union to benefit Leighton Lushin …send donations to any IMCU branch or IMCU-Castleton 7470 East 82nd Street, Indy 46256. Please put Leighton Lushin in the memo line of the check.

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