Easley YMCA Unveils Multi-Purpose Room
to Honor the Memory of Officer Matthew Hare

Easley YMCA photo


The Easley YMCA is proud to announce the unveiling of the Officer Matthew Hare Multi-Purpose Room at the new Easley YMCA at the McKissick Campus, dedicated to the memory of a local hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.


Officer Hare was a participant in the YMCA Afterschool and Summer Camp programs in his youth for more than nine years. He touched the lives of many with kindness, bravery, and unwavering commitment to justice. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his YMCA family and those who knew him.


YMCA CEO Sid Collins highlighted the project, stating, “We are honored to be a part of this meaningful moment that recognizes Officer Matthew Hare’s dedication to the community. The Officer Matthew Hare Multi-Purpose Room will serve as a space where children and individuals can come together to build a stronger, more connected community for years to come.”



Officer Matthew Hare




Matthew Hare’s obituary, including ;link to the video of the funeral service:

Officer Matthew Hare (February 3, 2001 – August 2, 2023)

Easley, SC


Officer Matthew Logan Hare, 22, an esteemed member of the Easley Police Department, passed away on August 2, 2023, in Easley, South Carolina. He was born on February 3, 2001, and leaves behind a legacy of courage and selflessness.


Matthew began his journey in law enforcement in 2022 after graduating from Easley High School in 2019. His passion for serving his community led him to enroll in the SC Criminal Justice Academy, where he acquired the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as a police officer. Matthew’s dedication to his profession was admired by all who knew him.


Beyond his commitment to his career, Matthew had a vibrant personality that lit up any room he entered. He cherished the love and support of his family and friends above all else. He held a special bond with his mother, Ashley Hare, and his brother, Easton Isaiah Hare who will forever remember him with love in their hearts. He was predeceased by his grandmother, Deborah Rogers Hare, who he affectionately called “Nana”.


In his free time, Matthew embraced a wide range of interests and hobbies. He was an avid fan of Clemson Football and took great joy in cheering on his favorite team. His competitive spirit extended beyond the stadium as he enjoyed playing video games with friends.


Matthew’s greatest joy came from spending quality time with loved ones. Whether gathering around the dinner table or embarking on outdoor adventures, he cherished every moment shared with family and friends. Matthew’s warm smile and contagious laughter brought happiness to those around him.


Despite having a life filled with promise and potential ahead of him, Officer Matthew Hare tragically lost his life while bravely saving the life of someone he had never met. This selfless act is a testament to his character and unwavering dedication to protecting others. Matthew’s sacrifice serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact one person can make on their community.


To honor Officer Matthew Hare’s life and commemorate his unwavering commitment to duty, a celebration of his life will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at Rock Springs Baptist Church, 201 Rock Springs Rd, Easley, SC 29642.


The Celebration of Matthew’s life can be viewed at http://livestream.com/rockspringsbaptist/funerals/videos/237160478

No public visitation will be held.


Matthew will be deeply missed by his mother, Ashley Hare (Tommy), and his beloved younger brother, Easton Isaiah Hare, whom he adored. He also leaves behind his aunt, Jessica Allsep (Mark), and grandparents Greg and Lori Hare of Six Mile, South Carolina. Matthew’s cousin Hanna Allsep and stepsister Kaylee Hughes were blessed to have shared cherished moments with him throughout their lives. Additionally, he is survived by numerous great aunts, uncles, and cousins who mourn the loss of their dear family member.


Officer Matthew Hare touched the lives of many with his kindness, bravery, and unwavering commitment to justice. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. As we bid farewell to a remarkable young officer taken too soon from us, let us remember Matthew as an inspiration and a shining example of what it means to serve others with selflessness and compassion.


In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that donations be made to https://www.etsy.com/listing/1523541876/officer-matthew-hare-memorial-bracelets?utm_source=OpenGraph&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_campaign=Share or     https://serveandconnect.networkforgood.com/projects/200010-officer-matthew-hare-memorial-fund