Ian Matthew Champion was born on June 24, 1999, in Lubbock, Texas to Ira Dean and Yolanda Alonzo Champion. On January 20, 2026, Ian departed to his heavenly home.

Born in Lubbock, Texas, Ian also called Anton, Texas; Killeen, Texas; Brownsville, Texas; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Longview, Texas; and Denton, Texas home.

Ian is a 2017 graduate of Longview High School where he graduated in the Top 10% of his class. While at Longview High School, he continued to be a high academic performer while also attaining 1st chair trumpeter in band. During his four years at Longview High, he represented the school multiple times at District, Regional, and State Competitions in Band, Academics and Current Events; and brought back many medals.

After high school, Ian attended Kilgore College where he attained an Associate of Science degree. Then it was on to the University of North Texas where he attained a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. In pursuit of even higher education, Ian served as a Teaching Fellow in the Math Department gaining valuable teaching experience in a variety of complex mathematics courses. At the time of his passing, he was enthusiastically tutoring and working on his dissertation.

In addition to his parents, Ian leaves to cherish his memories three loving sisters: Cuca Christine Champion (Lyman, South Carolina), Toni Perkins (Austin, Texas), and Erika Alonzo (Scott) (Auburn, Alabama); two nieces: Alyssa Embrey and Kitana Meadows; nephew: Austin Embrey; and, a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. Ian was loved by all and will be sorely missed.