Matthew A. Tew, Sr., a man defined by his extraordinary energy, diverse talents, and profound generosity, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the age of 60. A life-long resident of Georgetown, Alabama, Matt’s greatest legacy was his commitment to being a Friend, Brother, Father, and Neighbor that would help ALL in need. Born on November 18, 1964, Matt dedicated his life to service and mastering a wide array of skills.
Matt’s professional life was a testament to his versatility and commitment to public safety. A Life of Many Hats and Accomplishments:
•Industry and Service: Most recently, Matt utilized his technical skill and commitment to safety at Chevron in Pascagoula, MS, working as an E & I Technician and a Plant Fire Fighter.
•Martial Arts Master: A three-time IFFA (International Fight Federation Alliance) Champion, Matt was the Owner and Head Instructor of Mokuso Kia Karate Do, sharing his discipline as a Self Defense Instructor.
•Law Enforcement: He was a certified Law Enforcement Officer, serving his community as an Auxiliary Sheriff and a part-time officer with the Creola Police Department. In 2006, he ran for Sheriff of Mobile County, Alabama. His co-workers at Chevron and his fellow law enforcement officers were truly his brothers.
•Skilled Trades: His talents extended to the skilled trades, where he was a successful business owner of M² Controls, wiring buildings. He was also a Teledyne Technician, Foreman for Tate's Greenhouses, and Foreman for Tom Dodd Nurseries.
•Adventure: Matt was also a skilled Scuba diver, Underwater welder, and tree surgeon.
In his "free time," Matt loved nature and fishing, finding peace in the outdoors and a good dog.
Matt's greatest accomplishment was being a father. He loved his four children deeply and is survived by: Haleigh (Tew) New, Michelle (Tew) Barber, Matthew A. Tew, Jr. and Mia Rae Tew. He was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren.
Matt was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas R. Tew, Jr. and Mary S. Tew, of Georgetown, AL.
He is survived by his siblings: Thomas R. Tew, III of Wilmer, AL, Michael R. Tew of Georgetown, AL, and Mary Tew Long of Northport, AL. He will be fondly remembered by his nephews, Thomas R. Tew, IV and Thomas M. Long, III, his niece Mary G. Long, and numerous cousins and extended family.
A visitation will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Radney Funeral Home, 1200 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, AL 36571, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The funeral service will immediately follow at Radney Funeral Home at approximately 11:00 AM. Graveside services will follow the funeral at Lott Cemetery in Chunchula, Alabama.
The family invites friends and community members to a casual gathering to extend condolences and share memories at the Semmes Community Center, 10141 Moffett Road, Semmes, AL 36575. The gathering will take place later that afternoon, approximately from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Light food and refreshments will be served. This is an opportunity for all who wish to honor Matt's life, especially those who cannot attend the main services, to stop by and share a "Matt story."
Active Pallbearers will be Charlie Maples, Alfonso Allen, Barrett Wiggins, Thomas R. Tew, III, Thomas R. Tew, IV, and Thomas M. Long, III. Honorary Pallbearers will be Darrell Vance, TJ George, Michael R. Tew, Mary Tew Long, and ALL Matt's Chevron OddShift and Law Enforcement brothers.
