Dothan Resident Matthew Ryan Grinstead Dies at 48

Matthew Ryan Grinstead, a Dothan resident known for his laughter, diverse interests, and dedication to his family, passed away on October 9, 2026, at the age of 48. A memorial service and visitation are scheduled for Monday, October 12, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home in Midland City.

Born in Dothan on December 26, 1977, Mr. Grinstead was the son of Dana and Michael Eidson. Early in his life, he developed a strong bond with his maternal grandparents, Wes Grinstead, known as "Pop," and Dolores Grinstead, known as "Granny." These grandparents played a significant role in supporting him throughout his life, and he in turn cared for them in their later years. He often entertained others with "hilarious impersonations" of them both, according to his obituary.

Mr. Grinstead found particular joy in Suwannee, Florida, where he spent his early years fishing on the Suwannee River with his Pop during summers and holidays.

Throughout his life, Mr. Grinstead was known for his ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him, often described as "the life of the party." He possessed a wide range of interests, including being an avid reader. His outdoor pursuits included hunting, fishing, hiking, and golf. He was also a devoted fan of Alabama football.

Friends and family often turned to Mr. Grinstead for help with repairs, earning him the nickname "Mr. Fix It." He was described as talented, well-read, and hardworking. While he spent most of his career in sales, he also held "many other interesting jobs." At the time of his passing, he worked as a refrigeration technician with his Uncle Tim and Aunt Amy at Carrier Transicold, a skill he learned from his Uncle Tim while in Orlando.

In 2007, upon becoming a father, Mr. Grinstead accepted Christ and was baptized. He maintained a strong faith, loving the Lord and remaining confident in his salvation, according to his obituary.

Above all, Mr. Grinstead treasured his children, Brooklyn, Bryant, and Brett Grinstead. He was a "faithful supporter of all of their activities," even when it was inconvenient or costly. His daughter, Brooklyn, was his firstborn and "proudest accomplishment," despite her choice to attend Auburn University. His son, Bryant, was described as his "best friend," and was said to have given Mr. Grinstead "a taste of his own medicine with many a teenage-boy hijink." Mr. Grinstead shared "many adventures" with his son, Brett, supporting all of Brett’s "latest obsessions," which included helicopters, Elvis, and golf.

Mr. Grinstead was part of a close-knit group of lifelong friends, including Adam Corbin, Adam McCord, Jason Martin, Matt Heard, and Daniel Driggers, who were close throughout his life and were "accomplices to many shenanigans."

He is survived by his children, Brooklyn, Bryant, and Brett Grinstead; his parents, Dana and Michael Eidson; his brother, Ross Eidson and his wife Kasey, along with their children Harper and Addie Eidson; and his sister, Madeline Buchanan and her husband Judson, along with their daughter Birdy Buchanan. He is also survived by his paternal grandparents, Wayne and Mary Nell Eidson, as well as numerous loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.

Mr. Grinstead was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Wes and Dolores Grinstead, and his cousin, Townsend Thomas.

Visitation for Mr. Grinstead will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 12, 2026, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. The services will take place at Sunset Funeral Home, located at 1700 Barrington Road, Midland City, AL 36350. Pallbearers will include Bryant Grinstead, Adam Corbin, Jason Martin, Adam McCord, Matt Heard, and Daniel Driggers.

The family welcomes flowers but notes they are not necessary. Those who feel compelled to offer support are encouraged to reach out to the family directly to inquire about assisting his children.