He was a wonderful grandfather to have. My family and I lived in Washington state for most of my life so we were always pretty far away from our grandparents, but they always remained an important part of our lives. I didn’t get to see my granddad as often as if I had lived nearby, so in that sense we didn’t have an especially close relationship, but I can absolutely say that the relationship we did have was a very good one. 

Growing up, my brothers and I would talk to him and our grandmother on the phone for all the holidays and birthdays. They would visit us in Washington and we would visit them in Texas every couple years. As I grew up, I began writing them letters and postcards, calling on non-holidays and even visiting them at their home when I was able. My granddad always showed great appreciation, in his very humble way, whenever we got the chance to talk or visit.

He was a kind, thoughtful and gentle person. He was a good listener. I liked telling him about trips I’d taken as well places I’d like to go someday. I remember him acknowledging and encouraging the traveler in me from a young age. He, himself, had traveled a lot in his life and brought his family with him his during his time in the Air Force, which likely inspired his daughter- my mom- to have a traveler’s spirit, too.

My grandmother, Nell, was always his other half as far as I was concerned. I had never known them apart from one and other. He was the sugar to her spice. I loved visiting them and seeing them hold hands as we would go to restaurants or other places around town. I visited them earlier this year with my husband and we laughed in the back seat of their car on the way to dinner as they bickered about which route was the best to take, ultimately realizing they were arguing for the same thing. They were an image of love that I hope I can carry on in my life and my marriage. 

I find peace in the thought that, in one way or another, he and his daughter are together again. 

There were many things that were said at dad's funeral service, but many were not included. I would like to add some additional comments about dad's life. We all know he was born in Portland, Oregon and spent the first 18 years of his life there; Growing up, school (including Benson Polytech High School), family gatherings and get-togethers, friends, camping, fishing, and all the things that boys do as they are growing up. He still has a lot of nieces and nephews that are living on the West Coast; Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona.  Of special mention, is his brother, Richard Allen Matthews, and wife Nancy, of Gresham, Oregon.  Rick was born 18 years after dad so they didn't get the opportunity to grow up together. However, in later years they reconnected and developed a truly unique, brotherly bond. Dad and Nell would go to Oregon to visit him and Nancy, and Rick and Nancy would come to San Antonio to come see them. No doubt, they would share many family stories and experiences during these visits. Because I know how special Rick was to dad, I am looking forward to hearing some of the stories about their lives and family together. 

Our Dear friend Nell
Of the many years we had the privilege being a part of the LOFBC family, knowing the two of you would be among our most cherished memories.   Just seeing the two of you on any given Sunday morning always made our day a little brighter.  We will always remember those times we exchanged pleasantries and we never ceased to be amazed at how great the two of you looked.    I can never remember a time that you did not carry yourself with the utmost dignity and grace.  The two of you are what we aspired to be.
When we shared lunch a few Sundays ago, of course we had no way of knowing that would be our last time to see  Bob.  It was a joyful occasion; one we will hold on to tightly as time passes.  We look forward to one day seeing him again.  Thank you so much for including the two of us in your circle of friends.

With much love,
Gary & Carolyn

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He was preceded in death by his father Edwin A. Matthews and his mother Clara Etta (Bailey) Matthews, Sister Judith Jean Martin and daughter Sharon Lee Juen.  He is survived by his wife Nellie (Jones) Matthews, and one son Phillip David Matthews and wife Nellie.  Also, 6 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

OBITUARY

Robert Edwin Matthews

April 6, 1927 – April 22, 2019

Colonial Funeral Home

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