Bryant “Matt” Matthews, Jr., age 90, of New Boston, Texas passed away Sunday, January 3, 2021 at his residence with his family by his side.
He was born and reared in Durham, North Carolina. He joined the United States Army on January 31, 1951 and served until January 30, 1953. Matt was a member of the Antioch Baptist Church in New Boston and served as Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, and Church Treasurer for many years. He was retired from Red River Army Depot and Coleman Motors of New Boston. Matt was a passionate supporter of the New Boston community and served in many capacities. He served as New Boston Band Boosters President, New Boston Evening Lions Club President, and President of New Boston Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the New Boston Housing Authority Board, New Boston School Board, New Boston Industrial Development Corporation, and New Boston General Hospital Board. During his dedicated service to the community, he received the distinguished Lloyd Wilson Award. He organized the annual “March For Jesus”, and under his leadership, a proclamation was signed by the City of New Boston, declaring May 31, 2014 as “March for Jesus Day”. All who knew him recognized that Matt had a dedication for his LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST! He was a prayer warrior for many, and provided comfort and consolation for those who needed encouragement during difficult times. He adored his family and instilled in them the same. He was known affectionately by most as “Daddy Matt”. He relished the nicknames that he dubbed to his loved ones. He never complained, though he may not have felt his best…he would only smile and say, “I’M BETTER THAN I DESERVE,
He is survived by his devoted wife, Johnnie “Shuug” Helen Matthews, loving daughters, Ethel “Rip” Renee Chopp; Karen “Wade” Denise Forte (Kevin “Coop”), all of New Boston, Texas. His beloved grandchildren, Bryant “Brown” Keith Roberts (Emily) of Wake Village, Texas; Kiaundra “Koo Koo” Nichelle Walker (George, Sr.) of New Boston, Texas; Denisha LaDawn Forte of Bedford, Texas. His precious great grandchildren, Kyerica Rochelle Wade and George “DJ” Walker, Jr. of New Boston, Texas. His playful furry baby, Oscar; great furry babies, Coki and Walker.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 9, 2021 at First Baptist Church, 506 S. McCoy Blvd, New Boston, Texas.
Viewing will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., January 8, 2021 at Bates Rolf Funeral Home, 502 S. McCoy Blvd, New Boston, Texas.
We encourage everyone to stay safe. This includes practicing safe social distancing. If you plan to attend, please wear a mask.
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