Joseph Jay Matthews

February 26, 1936 – December 29, 2025

Joseph Jay Matthews, 89, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, in Everett, WA. “Joe” was born to Gertrude (Olinger) and Joseph Matthews, on February 26, 1936, in Salmon, Idaho. The family relocated to Everett early on and Joe lived there his entire life. He graduated from Everett High School in the class of 1954 and soon after joined the United States Army and was stationed in France. After completing his military service, Joe returned to Everett where he met Carol (McGirk) from Snohomish on a night out cruising Colby. They married in 1960 and remained married until Carol’s passing in 2007. Together they had three children.

Joe worked in the lumber industry for many years, first at Weyerhaeuser, then at Scott Paper Company, and later at Seattle-Snohomish Mill until his retirement. He loved fishing, especially fishing the lakes with his oldest son Mark along with brother Herb, and fishing the rivers and bays across Washington with son Mark. Joe also was an exceptional pool player, rarely losing and he still was a great player into his 70’s. He had a passion for all sports, particularly the Mariners, and Duke basketball and he also coached his children’s teams in boys’ baseball and girls’ soccer and basketball. He always cherished those memories and was deeply appreciated by his children’s friends and teammates.

Joe was known for his kindness and generosity. He loved his children and grandchildren dearly and made it a point to attend every important event. Over the years family, friends and friends of the kids would drop by the house to visit and chat or to just sit and watch a game with him. He loved it.

He was preceded in death by his parents Gertrude and Joseph, his brothers Clarence and Herbert Matthews and his wife Carol. He is survived by his sisters Frances Eaton (Richard) of Arlington, and Carol Jolley (Farlan) of Everett, children Mark and Steve Matthews of Everett, daughter Tamara “Tamie” Benito (Wade) of Las Vegas, three granddaughters: Erin Myers, Macie Aufiero (Justin), Carley Simone (Jordan), their father, Mel Myers and six great grandchildren all of Arizona. Additionally, he is survived by several nieces and nephews and one brother-in-law, Bob McGirk of Oak Harbor. He will be in laid to rest with his wife Carol at Evergreen Cemetery. In accordance with his wishes no services are planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Hospice of Everett.