Zora Mae Matthews

Zora Mae Matthews, lovingly known as “Mama,” was a strong, independent woman with a kind and thoughtful heart. She entered this world on October 12, 1945, born to the union of Ben Malone Sr. and Izora Malone in Tyler, Texas, and departed peacefully on her journey to heaven on May 6, 2026, in Casa Grande, Arizona, at the age of 80.

The eldest of eight children, Zora was a devoted sister to D.M., Arthur Lee, Flora Mae, Ben Jr., Jimmie Lee, James Lee, and Felton Lee. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben Malone Sr. and Izora Malone; her brothers, D.M. Malone, Arthur Lee Malone, and Ben Malone Jr.; and her beloved sons, Charles Edward Matthews and Cassius Henry Matthews.

Mama’s love for cooking was evident to all who knew her. She had a true passion for food and was a wonderful cook, known for nourishing others with both her meals and her generous spirit.

She leaves to cherish her memory: son William Roy Matthews Jr. (Debra) of Phoenix, Arizona; daughter Zora Annette Montijo (Rick) of Eloy, Arizona; son Johnathan Paul Matthews of Phoenix, Arizona; daughter Elizabeth Marie Matthews of San Tan Valley, Arizona; daughter Louella Matthews of Tempe, Arizona; son David Lee Matthews; daughter-in-law Michele Matthews (Cassius) of Sierra Vista, Arizona; godchild Lashell Chappell; 34 grandchildren; and 61 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Flora Mae Barnett of Tempe, Arizona; her brothers, Jimmie Lee Malone of Mesa, Arizona, James Lee Malone (Michelle) of Laveen, Arizona, and Felton Lee Malone (Beverly) of Phoenix, Arizona; and a host of nieces, nephews, and many close relatives and dear friends.

Her legacy of strength, love, and hospitality will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Service Information:

• Homegoing Celebration: Friday, May 22, 2026

• Location: After The One Church, 13325 S. Tacna Road, Arizona City, AZ 85123

• Viewing: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

• Service: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

• Interment: Eloy Memorial Park Cemetery, 5839 E. Milligan Road, Eloy, AZ 85131

• Repast: Lions Club, 109 E. 5th Street, Eloy, AZ 85131