Joe Julia Matthews

Joe J. Matthews (June 11,1930-Sept 4,2026)

Joe J. Matthews was born to Vertis & Clara Matthews in Neshoba County, MS on June 11,1930. His long, well-lived life on this earth came to a conclusion on the evening of September 4, 2026, when he changed his address to join our Lord Jesus.

“Papa Joe” is survived by his daughter Julia Charlynn Matthews Harvey (Cary); by three grandsons Caleb Matthew Harvey (Jessica), Graham Evan Harvey (Wendy) and Taylor Dustin Harvey (Corissa). Papa Joe is also survived by four grandsons; Wyler Grey Harvey, Parker Taylor Harvey, Harlan John Harvey & Miles Michael Harvey.

Joe is survived by a loving sister, Geraldine Therrell of Philadelphia, MS. He is also survived by his stepson, Keith Nelson.

Joe is predeceased by his daughter Barbara Wonell Matthews, Sybil Bradley Matthews, his wife of 30 years as well as two siblings; Johnny Matthews & Joyce Eldridge.

During Joe’s 96 years he had many jobs and careers in order to provide for his family but he was most proud of his military service in both the National Guard and the U.S. Army over a span of 27 years. He retired from the army in 1979 with the rank of Lt. Col. Joe served in an armored division and was a fixed-wing and helicopter pilot. He served in both Korea and Vietnam. He will be interred with full military honors at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, AL alongside Sybil.

After the death of his 2nd wife, Sybil, he moved to Tylertown in 2015 to be near his remaining family. There he attended Lexie Baptist Church.