The Pulaski Academy community and the greater Little Rock area are mourning the sudden loss of Matt Pulley, 49, who passed away on August 25, 2025. A devoted husband, father, and colleague, Matt’s life was marked by faith, love for his family, and a deep dedication to serving others.

Matt is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, their son Tyler, a senior at Pulaski Academy, and their daughter Maddy Kate, a junior at Ouachita Baptist University.

For nearly 20 years, Matt served as Assistant Head of Enrollment at Pulaski Academy, where his warm demeanor and welcoming smile often provided the first impression for new families. Colleagues recall his unique ability to instantly put people at ease, creating an environment where everyone felt valued and included.

“For the last 18 years, Assistant Head of Enrollment Matt Pulley’s welcoming demeanor and big smile have been among the first memories many families have of Pulaski Academy,” the school said in a statement.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Elizabeth, and their children, Maddy Kate and Tyler, as we hold them close in our thoughts during this difficult time. Our hearts are heavy as we grieve the loss of Matt, a father, husband, friend, and colleague who left an indelible mark at PA.”

The outpouring of condolences from families, students, and staff highlights the profound impact Matt had on the community. One parent shared:

“Matt is the reason my girls attend PA. We toured multiple schools when we moved here, and his heart for students and the PA community let us know we were in the right place. My heart goes out to his family. He was a beautiful human, and the depth of your loss is unfathomable.”

Friends and colleagues remember Matt as genuine, humble, loyal, and joy-filled. His laughter could light up a room, and his sense of humor brought warmth to every gathering. Through his kindness, wit, and unwavering presence, he turned ordinary moments into cherished memories.

“If Matt was there, you knew you were going to have a good time,” said a close friend.

Faith was central to Matt’s life. A devoted follower of Jesus, he lived with compassion, integrity, and love for his family at the heart of everything he did. He cherished every moment with Elizabeth, Tyler, and Maddy Kate, taking pride in their accomplishments and supporting their pursuits. Beyond family and work, Matt was also an avid Baylor football fan, following the team enthusiastically.

As the Pulaski Academy community processes this heartbreaking loss, friends, colleagues, and church members have rallied to support the Pulley family. A fundraiser has been established to assist Elizabeth, Tyler, and Maddy Kate during this difficult time.

“The hole he leaves is immense, and yet even now we’re held by the hope Matt lived with and pointed us to. This fundraiser is a way for all of us—family, friends, teammates, classmates, colleagues, church family—to show up for Matt’s family right now,” organizers shared.

Matt Pulley’s legacy of warmth, integrity, and devotion to family and community will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.