WILMINGTON — John Wesley “Smiley” Matthews, 81, died Tuesday, March 5, 2019, at Trinity Grove surrounded by his loving family.
He was born June 12, 1937, in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, the son of the late Beecher Clay Matthews and Edith Altman Matthews. Also remembered are his son, Kirk Theodore Matthews, two brothers and one sister, who preceded him in death.
Surviving are his beloved wife of 57 years, Karen Matthews; two daughters, Holly Woollard and Krysta McCain, and her husband, Dennis; three grandchildren, Jaydon Woollard, Emma McCain and Wade McCain; and several nieces and nephews.
John was veteran of the U.S. Air Force and retired from US Airways after 40 years of service. He enjoyed the beach and loved to fish. Additionally, John spent many hours working in his yard and will be remembered for his great sense of humor.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, March 8, at Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 9, at Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel with the Rev. Dan Keck officiating. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Memorials may be made to Kure Memorial Lutheran Church, 117 N. 3rd Ave., Kure Beach, NC 28449.
Share online condolences with the family at Andrews Mortuary & Crematory.
