Charles Anthony DeMatteo passed away peacefully at his home on March 30, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 22, 1930, he was known as “Charlsie” to grandchildren and” Bud” to longtime friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ann DeMatteo, and brother, Frank DeMatteo.
Charles proudly served in the United States Navy prior to marrying his beautiful wife, Mary Louise King DeMatteo, in 1956. They were the first couple to marry at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and continued attending Holy Rosary for more than 70 years.
Charles was selfless, an incredible role model to his sons-in-law, had a hilarious sense of humor, he served others joyfully, and he loved being outdoors taking care of their beautiful home of 70 years. But what he loved more than anything was his wife and children and their families. His love was beautiful and so obvious to everyone that he touched, if even for a day. He loved our Lord Jesus with all his heart and is now in heaven surrounded by all that went before him.
Charles is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; his sister, Sister Nena DeMatteo; his four children Theresa (Mark) Tillinger of Leipers Fork, Kellye (Ron) Brock of Nolensville, Anthony DeMatteo of Nashville, Pam (Rich) Garifine of Nolensville; eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Charles is also survived by nephews Thomas and Frank DeMatteo.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 1, at 11:00 am at Holy Rosary Catholic Church at 190 Graylynn Drive, followed by Mass at 12:00 pm. Following the service, Charles will be laid to rest at Calvery Cemetery for a private family burial.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org) or The Wounded Warriors Project (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the DeMatteo family by selecting "Add a Memory" at the bottom of this page.
