Cheryl Butler Matthews

Born on December 14, 1946, to the late J.D. and Elizabeth Butler. Cheryl lived a life defined by love, faith, service, and dedication to others. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, respected educator, and a truly special friend to many whose kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit touched countless lives.

Cheryl was married to her beloved husband, Larry D. Matthews, her college sweetheart and lifelong partner for 58 years and together share a lifetime of cherished memories. She was the proud mother of two sons, Donnie and Jimmy, whom she loved with all her heart. Throughout their lives she was their greatest supporter, always offering encouragement, guidance, and unconditional love. One of her greatest joys was being “Nana” to her grandchildren, whom she adored. She treasured every moment spent with them and took great pride in their lives and accomplishments. She had a unique way of making each grandchild feel special and loved and the bond she shared with each of them was one of the greatest blessings of her life.

A faithful Christian woman, she was a longtime member of Parkburg Baptist Church, where she found fellowship, encouragement, and opportunities to serve alongside her church family. Her faith was reflected in the compassion, grace, and generosity she showed to everyone she met.

Cheryl attended grammar school and high school in Jackson and graduated from South Side High School in 1964. She went to Lambuth College for the first two years and then transferred to the University of Tennessee at Martin and graduated with a B.S. degree in Education. She later attended Memphis State University and received her Master’s degree in Education. She was a dedicated teacher for 32 years. Cheryl devoted her career to educating and inspiring young people. Her patience, encouragement, and commitment to education left a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues. After 32 years of service, she retired, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in education.

Outside the classroom, Cheryl loved spending time with her friends and treasured the many relationships she built throughout her life. Her warm personality, caring nature, and outgoing spirit made her a beloved friend to many. She was also a proud member of P.E.O., where she enjoyed fellowship and supported the organization’s mission of encouraging educational opportunities for women. Cheryl found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved planting flowers, arts and crafts, and traveling.

Those who knew Cheryl will remember her for her caring heart, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and devotion to her family and friends. She had a special gift for making others feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Whether in the classroom, at home, in her garden, at church, or gathered with friends, Cheryl’s warmth and compassion were evident in all she did.

Cheryl is survived by her husband, Larry D. Matthews; their two sons, Donnie (Monica) and Jimmy (Leslie); grandchildren, Dawson, Maggie, Ethan, Drew, Jackson, Whitley, and Wesley; her brother Steve Butler (Donna); two nephews, Brett and Blake; and many other family members, friends, former students, and colleagues who will cherish her memory. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, compassion, friendship, creativity, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at George A. Smith and Sons South Chapel, 1544 S Highland Ave., Jackson, TN 38301. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m., with funeral services to follow at 1:00 p.m. A graveside service and burial will be held at Parkburg Baptist Church Cemetery following the funeral.