James "Matt" Wiest

James Matthew Wiest, known to everyone as "Matt," passed away on September 7, 2026, at the age of 39. Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, he made his home in Prairieville.

Matt is survived by his spouse, Rachel Bracey, and his children, Aubree Wiest, Noah Bracey, Jonah Bracey, and Abram Bracey, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his mother, Jane Morrison Wiest, and his siblings, Jean Difilippo (née Wiest), Brandy Yarborough (née Wiest), and Cannon A. Wiest. He was preceded in death by his father, Cannon Wiest.

He spent a great deal of his adulthood working as a restoration tech with SaniGLAZE and was able to work and hone his skill on large-scale projects; most recently, Matt was working as a certified rope technician with Brock Services, a career he found great joy in. Doing this work allowed him to recently travel to Alaska for a project, a place he always wanted to see. He was a jack of all trades who could fix just about anything he set his hands on. He always repped LSU, found easy pleasure in watching anime, explored woodworking and welding, and loved cooking for his family. From an early age, he could find escape in drawing, something passed down from his grandfather, papou. But more than anything, Matt loved being a father, his children were his pride and his purpose.

Matt was known for his kindness, his easy smile, and a laugh that always let you know what he meant. He also had an Olympic-level side eye that his family and friends will never forget. Life didn't always make things easy for him, but Matt always tried, and when he was knocked down, he picked himself up again. That quiet, steady determination, the simple fact that he was someone who was trying, is one of the truest things that can be said about him.

Matt will be interred in Greenlawn cemetery in Hammond with his Aunt Ann, and maternal grandparents, James, his namesake, and Cam. He will never be alone.

Matt will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, a small donation can be made to his family's gofundme as they navigate their future.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-support-the-family-of-rachel-bracey?attribution_id=sl%3A1218399b-43c1-4c67-bd51-a22722d1bf25&lang=en_US&ts=1789527423&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp30-treatment-4&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&cp_src=d

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula.