Jean Ruth Matthews, 89, of Grove City, passed away on October 13, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was born on February 19, 1934 to the late Clinton and Marie (Morris) Freshcorn in Struthers, Ohio.
Jean enjoyed traveling, crocheting prayer shawls for her church, cooking and spending time with her family and friends. Jean was a founding member of the Ohio Blind Vendors and was also a member of the National Federation of the Blind. She spent her career in food service throughout Columbus managing the cafeterias and snack bars at various places including the Ohio Department of Education, Bryson Building, Ohio Job Services, Ohio EPA, Ohio Statehouse and Ohio History Center finally retiring after 49 years of service in 2018.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister Claire, husband Thomas J. Matthews Jr. and son-in-law, Jay Smalley.
Jean is survived by her daughters, Donna Simonson and Marie (Warren) Yoder; grandchildren, Christopher (Amanda) Slater, Stephen (Meghan) Slater and Ian (Jessica) Slater; along with 5 great-grandchildren, Dillon, Collin, Preston, Alexander and Lydia Slater.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 19 from 1pm until 3pm at Schoedinger Grove City, 4242 Hoover Rd, Grove City, where the memorial service will immediately follow, Chaplain Stan Kirtlan, officiating.
In lieu of flowers contributions in Jean’s honor may be made to Promedica/Heartland Hospice, 6500 Busch Blvd. #210, Columbus OH 43229
