Matthew James Finnell, Jr.

Matthew James Finnell, 53, of Springfield, passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2009 at Memorial Medical Center. Matthew was born on August 12, 1955 in Springfield, the son of Matthew James, Sr. and Charlene Barry Finnell. Matthew graduated from Griffin High School, and he earned his bachelors from Drake University and his doctorate from Tulane School of Law in New Orleans. He was a member of the IL State Bar Association, the Sangamon County Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the Government Bar Association, Ducks Unlimited, the National Rifle Association, White Tails Unlimited, Wild Turkey Federation, Quail's Unlimited, and Pheasants Forever, and he was serving on the Board of Governors at Anchor Boat Club. He was employed as the Administrator for the Illinois Court of Claims. Matthew was an avid reader who also enjoyed boating, fishing, and hunting. Preceding Matthew in death are his grandparents. He is survived by his parents, Charlene and Matthew Finnell of Springfield; his siblings, Catherine A. (husband, Dale) Becker of Springfield, Charles F. (wife, Kim) of Rochester, and John B. of Springfield; three nieces, Sarah, Emily, and Christine Becker; a nephew, Jake Finnell; an aunt; and several cousins. Family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at the Church of the Little Flower, 800 Stevenson Dr., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at the Church of the Little Flower with Rev. Msgr. John R. Ossola, celebrant. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Little Flower School, 900 Stevenson Dr., Springfield, IL 62703.