Norwich, VT - Matthew "Matt" F. Starr, 67, a devoted educator whose boundless passion for teaching and profound love for nature left an indelible mark on all who knew him, peacefully departed this world with the sunset on June 9, 2024. He was surrounded by his cherished wife, sons, daughter-in-law, sister, brother-in-law, and dear friends at the Jack Byrne Center for Hospice and Palliative Care in Lebanon, NH.

Born and raised in South Charleston, West Virginia, Matt cultivated a deep affinity for the outdoors from a young age. His upbringing instilled in him not only a reverence for the land and wildlife, but also a profound respect for his West Virginia heritage.

After graduating from South Charleston High School in 1975, Matt embarked on a journey of self-discovery. In his mid-twenties, he dedicated himself to developing his natural abilities in competitive running and biking, completing his first of several major marathons. This pursuit eventually led him to California, where he found his true calling in education.

Matt attended UC Berkeley and later earned a master's degree in early education from Mills College in Oakland, California. He began his career by mentoring underprivileged children at the YMCA and later taught at several schools in the Bay Area.  It was during this time he met the love of his life, Sophie Starr. Their meeting marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with shared values and aspirations. They married in November of 1990 in San Francisco, California.  Two sons soon followed.

They moved to Vermont in the early 2000s, becoming residents of the Cobb Hill Co-Housing development in Hartland, VT. Matt and Sophie's commitment to social, ecological, and sustainable living made them invaluable members of the Cobb Hill community, where they contributed generously to its growth and well-being.

Matt's career in the Hanover School District began as a long-term substitute teacher at Marion Cross School, leading to a full-time position at Bernice Ray School. Beyond the classroom, Matt's passion for nature and the outdoors was palpable, as he imparted valuable lessons about the environment and the importance of conservation to his students and community alike. He enjoyed gardening, exploring the wilderness, and expanding his spiritual horizons through reading and reflection. Matt loved all sports but found his greatest pleasure in watching and coaching his sons' sporting events.

Matt's genuine appreciation for life's simple pleasures was infectious, leaving an lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the profound imprint he left on the hearts of those he encountered.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sophie of Norwich, VT; his sons, Lucas and Casey Starr; his daughter-in-law Arielle; his sister, Amanda Starr, and her husband, Don, and children, Cole and Helen.

At his request a private natural burial will be held in the Hillside Cemetery in Norwich, VT just a short way from his home, where a celebration of life will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Willing Hands ( https://willinghands.org/donate/ ) or any charity the resonates with you in Matt's memory.