Roy Edgar Matthews

Roy Matthews was born on July 6, 1930, in Oklahoma City and born to Burt and Roxie Matthews. At Classen High School Roy was a popular student, made the honor roll, excelled in all sports and earned the Eagle Scout award. After high school, Roy attended the University of Oklahoma where he played intramural sports, made the Dean’s Honor Roll, and became an active member of the Kappa Alpha Order.

At the age of 20 Roy felt an obligation to serve his country during the Korean War. Like other young men at the time, he did not hesitate to put college on hold and signed up with the U.S. Marine Corps. Between September, 1950 and April, 1952, he served two tours of duty in Korea and received a number of metals and acknowledgements, including two Purple Hearts.

After returning to Oklahoma, he went to OU and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Geology. While at OU he met Pat Whitfield and within the year they were married at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Shortly thereafter they moved to Durango and soon welcomed the birth of their son Mike. In 1960 they moved back to Oklahoma City and arrived before the birth of their daughter Lisa.

In the 1960’s, 70’s, and early 80’s, Roy concentrated on raising a family and becoming a top notch geologist. He also took up sailing and enjoyed many summer afternoons on Lake Hefner.

Between the mid-1980’s and early 90’s, Roy and Pat traveled the world. In 1991 both Mike and Lisa got married and grandchildren soon followed with the births of Natalie, Katie, and Brett. With that brought the joys of being a grandfather.

Roy was always happiest by learning French, reading, working tirelessly in his beautiful yard, and always looking for ways to help others.

Roy and Pat had a very loving relationship and were married almost 59 years.

A memorial service will be 11am, Friday, August 15, 2014, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Memorial donations may be made in Roy’s memory to St. Luke’s UMC Studio 222 After School Program at http://stlukesokc.org/index/giving. Please visit Roy’s online memorial at www.ChapelHill-OKC.com.

God Bless you Roy you will always be in our hearts.