By Philip Timothy, Managing Editor
FORT JESUP – A love fund has been established for the family of Rev. Matt Haggard at MidSouth Bank in Natchitoches to help with expenses.
Haggard was tragically killed Thursday, June 7.
Interim pastor of First Baptist Church in Fort Jesup, Haggard was on his daily jog along state Highway 6 near the Fort Jesup Community which is located six miles east of Many, Louisiana, when he was hit by a teenage driver.
According to a press release from Louisiana State Police Troop E, troopers responded to the crash on LA Highway 6 at Melody Lane around 6:50 a.m.
The release stated the 17-year-old juvenile driver, who was from Many, lost control of his 2004 Cheverolet pickup and exited the right side of the roadway. After exiting the roadway, the vehicle collided with Haggard, as he was jogging eastbound on the westbound shoulder.
The 46-year-old Haggard died at the scene of the accident according to Sabine Parish deputy coroner Ron Rivers.
“Matt was just a good guy,” said Ron Thompson, Director of Missions for the District Eight Baptist Convention, “He was always smiling. He enjoyed life and celebrated it. And, he was never shy about bragging on his wife April and their two sons.
“Matt not only celebrated all that God did in his life but he also shared God’s greatness and love with all that he met,” continued Thompson. “He was a true servant of the Lord.”
According to the Annual Church Profile, Haggard previously served as pastor of Oak Hill Baptist Church in Many and First Baptist Church in Marthaville.
“Because Matt was who he was, he just happily served the Lord and never worried about financial resources,” said Thompson. “He had been without a church since January and just recently became interim pastor at Fort Jesup.
“This is why we have set up the love fund for April and the boys,” said Thompson
To donate to the fund, one can go to any MidSouth Bank in the state or call 800.213.2265. Request your donations go to account 3718530. Funeral arrangements are still pending.
