Matthew Yarber, Jr.

THIS MAN MADE A DIFFENCE

 Matthew Yarber, Jr.

Matthew Yarber, Jr. was born on January 17, 1946, to the proud parents Matthew Yarber, Sr. and Martha Lioyd, he was the third child in a bustling household filled with laughter, sibling rivalry, and cherished memories alongside his sibling Fredrick, Carrie, Vernon, James, Melvin, and Tuneishia.From his youth, Matthew exhibited a character that was both unique and unforgettable. As a true Denver native, he walked through the halls of Manual High with a swag, He turned heads with his impeccable sense of fashion that he carried throughout his life. He was never one to wear sneakers, as he preferred Stacys (if you know you know). He once created a timeless memory with his brother James as they bought "The Crooked Mercury," a misstep that earned them a stern warning and a lesson from their father, embodying the adventurous spirit that characterized his life.Matthew's legacy unfolded further as he graduated from Manual High, later pursuing continued education at Metro City College. Among his numerous accolades, none filled him with more pride than being named the “Best Dressed” in his class—a title he carried proudly throughout his life. His impeccable sense of style earned him the affectionate moniker of the "Best Dressed Man in Denver," a testament to his no-nonsense approach to life that blended elegance with confidence.A devoted family man, Matthew shared 57 beautiful years with his beloved wife, Patricia, whom he met in Denver. Together, they nurtured a loving family, blessing the world with remarkable children Curtis (Chayla) and Antonette. From a previous marriage, Mark (Lisa), Yacinda (Kevin) Yarber-Bell. The warmth of family life echoed through countless cherished moments—from revelations about the world of wrestling with Mark, to memorable dates with his daughter Yacinda at Pierre’s Supper Club, to the special moments he shared watching boxing matches until midnight with Antonette, and to going to the barbershop with Curtis. Each memory painted a vivid picture of a father who loved deeply and passionately engaged in the lives of his children.In service to his country, Matthew proudly donned the Army uniform, serving from 1964 to 1968 and making his mark at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, and in Korea. Upon returning, he channeled his ambition for entrepreneurship, establishing East Denver Liquors, MY Wine & Spirits and venturing into the realm of hospitality with a newly opened Airbnb. His life was a tapestry woven with hard work, a passion for art collecting, and a yearning for travel, exploring the richness of the world around him.Matthew leaves behind not only his beloved wife, brothers, and children but also a vibrant legacy marked by the love of his grandchildren—Ryan, Quincy, Mecca, Jessica, Sasha, Chauncy, Geno, Wesley, Lil Matthew, and Tyree—who all fondly referred to him as "Grand Pa" and "Grand Pa Matthew."He cherished close friendships, especially with A.J. Mathias and (Judge) Jerry Stevens, who shared in his journey of life. Matthew's story is one of resilience, love, and indelible style; he will forever be remembered for his insightful spirit, sense of fashion, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.Matthew Yarber, Jr., a dynamic force whose life was marked by love, style, and entrepreneurial spirit, left this world on October 29, 2025, at the age of 79. He is survived by his adored wife, Patricia, his sons Curtis and Mark, his daughters Yacinda and Antonette, his siblings Fredrick and Carrie both have proceeded in death, Vernon, James, Melvin and Tuneishia. Matthew leaves behind not only his beloved wife, children, brothers and sister but also a vibrant legacy marked by the love of his grandchildren—Ryan, Quincy, Mecca, Jessica, Sasha, Chauncy, Geno, Wesley, Lil Matthew, and Tyree—who all fondly referred to him as "Grand Pa" and "Grand Pa Matthewa , and a host of great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.