Col. Richard Gene Matthews

Col. Richard Gene Matthews passed away in his home on December 31 after a two-year illness. Gene was born in Drakes, Ohio, and in 1953 he earned his Bachelor’s degree and was a Distinguished Military Graduate from The Ohio State University.

A 30-year Air Force veteran, Gene was assigned for service in Mississippi, Texas, Spain, Missouri, Alabama, Florida, Japan, Nevada, the Philippines, and Virginia. He earned many military decorations and awards including the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross with oak leaf cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Air Medal with seven oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two oak leaf clusters and victory device, the Combat Readiness Medal, the National Defense Service Medal with bronze service star, the Vietnamese Service Medal with three bronze service stars, the Air Force Longevity Medal with silver oak leaf clusters, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, the Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with palm, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. A devoted pilot, Gene continued his flying career as a commercial pilot, shared his passion as a docent at the Virginia Air and Space Museum, and a private pilot with the Langley Aero Club where he was awarded the Wright Brothers Flying Award.

Gene is survived by his wife of 59-1/2 years, Barbara Henderson Matthews of Hampton; his son Richard Keith Matthews, wife Laura, and grandsons Ricky and Thomas of Hampton. He is also survived by his daughter Deborah Matthews, husband Gerard Gutierrez, and granddaughters Sara and Grace of Arlington, Massachusetts.

On Tuesday, January 6, a memorial service for Gene will be held at 6 pm, with visitation following from 7 to 9 pm at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home. Graveside services will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words and condolence with the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Ave., Hampton, Virginia 23666.