In Loving Memory of Judge Matthew Hawley
With deep sorrow and heartfelt respect, we remember the life and legacy of Judge Matthew Hawley, whose passing has left the Greenville community mourning the loss of a man who dedicated his life to justice, fairness, and public service.
Judge Hawley passed away on Friday, just days before his planned retirement on June 30, bringing an unexpected and heartbreaking end to a remarkable 30-year career of service to the people of Greenville.
For three decades, Judge Hawley served as Chief Justice of Greenville Municipal Court, earning the admiration of colleagues, law enforcement, city officials, and countless members of the community. His commitment to fairness, compassion, and understanding made him more than just a judge — he became a symbol of integrity and humanity within the justice system.
Those who worked alongside him remember a man who understood that behind every case was a person, often carrying struggles unseen by others. He was known for balancing the law with empathy, recognizing that everyone has difficult days and deserves to be treated with dignity.
Greenville Mayor Knox White described Judge Hawley as a man whose “legal acumen, fairness, and genuine respect for every individual elevated the standards of municipal justice in Greenville,” words that reflect the lasting impact he had on the city he served so faithfully.
Greenville Police Chief Howie Thompson also shared how Judge Hawley was “very fair and just,” always understanding the human side of every situation.
Judge Hawley himself once reflected on his life’s work, saying that he always tried to be fair, compassionate, and understanding — and that he believed in bringing a little laughter into difficult moments to lighten the burden for others. That spirit of kindness and humility is what many will remember most.
His family, while grieving this tremendous loss, shared their gratitude for the outpouring of support and encouraged others to honor his memory by finding “some small way to do some good in this world.”
That message speaks volumes about the kind of man Judge Hawley was — someone who believed in service, goodness, and making a difference, no matter how small.
Though his retirement was just days away, his legacy had already been firmly established long before. The courtroom dedicated in his honor stands as a symbol of his years of dedication, but his true legacy lives on in the countless lives he impacted through his fairness, wisdom, and compassion.
To his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Greenville community, we extend our deepest condolences during this painful time.
Rest in peace, Judge Matthew Hawley. Your service, your kindness, and your unwavering commitment to justice will never be forgotten. 🕊️








