In Memory of Matt Aernie

Matthew Daniel Aernie

October 20, 1974 — October 9, 2025

Dr. Matthew (Matt) Daniel Aernie, age 50, of Moody, Alabama, passed away on October 9, 2025, surrounded by family, following an extended illness.

Born on October 20, 1974, in Greenville, Texas, Matt was raised in Lincoln, Nebraska. He attended Hannibal-LaGrange University in Missouri, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Christian education. His love of learning and devotion to studying Scripture led him to pursue graduate studies, ultimately earning three post-graduate degrees, including a Ph.D. in New Testament from the University of Wales.

Matt was a gifted teacher and theologian who shared his passion for faith and learning as a professor at Colorado Christian University, Samford University, and Birmingham Theological Seminary. His thoughtful insight, approachable nature, and genuine care for students left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of learning from him. Some of Matt’s proudest accomplishments were his written published works, and he was especially honored to work with his dear friend and colleague Donald Hartley co-authoring two books, The Righteous and Merciful Judge: The Day of the Lord in the Life and Theology of Paul and Essentials of Biblical Interpretation: From the Principles of Exegesis to the Practices of Exposition.

He met his wife, Bonnie, at Southeastern Bible College, where she served as an ASL interpreter in the class he was teaching. The two married in 2009 and built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose. Together they raised two wonderful children, Andrew (12) and Emma (10), who were the pride and joy of Matt’s life. They loved to have fun together, often including the whole neighborhood crew to compete in a made-up game of some kind. 

A devoted fan of Nebraska Huskers football and the Chicago Cubs, Matt’s enthusiasm for sports was matched only by his love of coaching and playing alongside his kids. Known around the neighborhood and at family gatherings as the one who could turn any occasion into a game, Matt brought energy, connection, and fun wherever he went.

Matt was a member of Community Presbyterian Church in Moody, where he faithfully served as an Elder and Sunday School teacher. His love for his church was a guiding force throughout his time there. The generosity and loving community the church provided were a great source of strength and comfort to the family throughout Matt’s illness.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the multitude of providers and staff at UAB Hospital who were involved in Matt’s care, including but not limited to the Infectious Disease team, the Orthopedic team, SICU, MICU, and the Ortho-Trauma unit on the 9th Floor, as well as Matt’s nurses, CNAs, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, doctors from Spain-Wallace Rehab, the housekeeping staff, and the food services staff, who were careful never to forget the peach cobbler! We will always remember all they did for Matt and the countless ways their tireless service, even to the last day, graciously upheld his dignity.

Matt was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents George and Jean Pirtle.  

Matt is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Bonnie Lawrence Aernie; his children, Andrew (12) and Emma (10); his mother, Deb Hansen; his father, Robert (Teresa) Aernie; his brothers, Michael (Nicole) Aernie and Jeffrey (Allison) Aernie; his nieces, Haley Aernie, Zoe Lawrence, Abigail Aernie, Scarlett Lawrence, Chloe Aernie, Cameryn Lawrence, Rebekah Aernie, and Lucy Lawrence; and his in-laws, Paul and Harriet Lawrence and Ben (Lindsey) Lawrence. He leaves behind a host of cousins, aunts and uncles, and colleagues and friends whom he cherished deeply.

Those who knew Matt will remember his steadfast faith, his love of teaching the Bible, his quick wit, and his generous heart. He had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. His legacy lives on through his family, his friends, his students, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and joy.