Robert (Bob) William Matthews

Bob was a proud Navy Veteran spending 30 years in the Navy serving his country. He enlisted at the age of 17 and worked his way up the ranks in his many years of service. His service included tours in the Vietnam War, serving in the Philippines, Cuba and many others. He finished his military career as a Navy Diver with an impressive rank of Master Chief Petty Officer.

The true legacy that Bob has left are the lasting memories of time spent with him. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He truly had the mouth of a sailor but was kind and funny. He is survived by his 6 children; Chandra Mcpherson, Beth Hockaday, Yvette Spear, Jenny Buljat, Andrea Rodriguez, and Robert Matthews Jr.; his sisters Amy Plassins, Peggy Matthews and Barbara Tyle; as well as his 9 grandchildren that all held a special place in his heart. Bob was preceded in death by the love of his life and best friend Tammie Matthews; as well as his brother Thomas Matthews, and parents Raymond and Joan Matthews.

Bob lived a long and fulfilling life and had many great adventures with his best friend and wife, Tammie. They spent years enjoying the paradise of St Croix in the U.S.V.I. and then moved to Naples where Tammie’s career blossomed. He loved traveling with her for work and was always there to provide support. When not working they took every opportunity to go off and explore the Caribbean while always making new friends along the way. When Bob lost Tammie to cancer in April of 2021 his heart was broken and he could not wait to be with his love once more. Bob held on for a few more years driven by his love for his grandchildren and the joy of watching them grow. On May 20, 2025 he was ready to go and passed peacefully at 2:30 AM and was finally reunited with his best friend once again.