Donny Jay Matthews

Virginia Beach - Donny Jay Matthews, 77, passed away on August 21, 2013 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Norfolk, VA to the late Almond Jay and Fannie (Collins) Matthews. He served in the National Guard and retired in 2008 as the Assistant Vice President of Hoy Construction, after more than 50 years with the company. He was a longtime member of Trinity Baptist Church and a member of Thalia Lynn Baptist Church for the last 12 years.

Donny will be remembered for his easy laugh, his sense of humor, and all of the lives that he has touched – witnessed in his many lifelong friends. While his family may have grumbled earlier about his passion for photography, they are certainly now thankful for the recording of these cherished memories – as are many local couples for whom Donny acted as wedding photographer.

"Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God." Matthew 5:9

Donny was preceded in death by his parents and a sister and brother in law; Barbara and Bill Knoeller. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Edna N. Matthews; sons, Mark G. Matthews (Page) of Chesapeake, Michael "Jay" Matthews (Cathy) of Virginia Beach; daughter Susan Wyatt Mann (Troy) of Suffolk; seven grandchildren, Michelle Miller, Bryan Leahey, Jack Matthews, Keira Mann, Logan Mann, Sadie and Nicholas Matthews; three great grandchildren, Madison Miller, McCrae Leahey, and Ethan Miller; and a brother Lawrence E. Matthews (Jean) of Vienna, VA.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, August 26, 2013 in Thalia Lynn Baptist Church with the Rev. Prentis McGoldrick officiating with interment to follow in Colonial Grove Memorial Park. The family will receive friends for 2:00 to 4:00 on Sunday, August 25, 2013 at Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in his memory to The Matthews Family Fund at Children's Hospital of The Kings Daughters, Post Office Box 2156, Norfolk, VA 23501-9873. Friends may view and sign the online memorial at www.smithandwilliamskempsville.com