Charles Matthews

Charles Edward Matthews, 83, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 15, 2023.

He was born on March 3, 1940 to William Edgar Matthews and Bertha Lilian Fullerlove. Charles graduated from Shawnee High School in 1958 & lived in the Shawnee/Seminole/ Earlsboro areas all his life. He had a diverse career that started at a young age. Charles worked at the Rock Island Railroad as a conductor and rode the rails for many adventures. He also worked at Thurman’s Cash & Carry Grocery Store, as well as working in a lumber yard and as a butcher.

Later in life, Charles moved onto a farm and kept very busy with farm life. He really enjoyed raising cows, the daily maintenance of keeping the farm going, and the occasional chasing of bulls escaping onto the highway. Big Foot also lived on the farm and helped Charles keep things in check.

His favorite hobby was fishing, whether it was on his own pond on the farm or getting away to other special spots. He had lots of fun fishing with his sons and grandkids. There was always a big fish that got away. He also enjoyed showing beagles and raising Grand Champions when he was younger. You would always find Charles with dogs throughout his whole life.

Charles came from a family of musicians. Whether it was the banjo, guitar or drums, you could find the entire Matthews clan picking up an instrument and ready to play.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Jerry Matthews, Jack Matthews, Bill Matthews and Wanda Pinson.

Charles is survived by his wife, Patricia Ann Matthews, children, Carey Edward Matthews and wife Shirley, Cash Evan Matthews and wife Katy, Chris Ann Dale and husband Christopher, stepdaughter, Beverly Shaw and husband Jeff, along with the lights of his life, his grandchildren: Creed Edward Matthews, Caleb Ethan Matthews, Claire Eve Matthews, Connor Grant Dale, Logan Christopher Dale, Audrey Elizabeth Joy Matthews, Sarah Grace Matthews, and step-grandchildren, Lacey Rochelle Tillery and Justice DeLane Burns. He also leaves behind his nephews Clay Nelson & Jerry Matthews, Jr., Randy Pinson, Larry Pinson, Dennis Pinson, niece Betty Matthews and several great nieces & nephews.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at Walker Funeral & Cremation Service on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm with family present to greet friends from 5-7pm. A funeral ceremony for Charles will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at the Walker Funeral Chapel. Following the ceremony, Charles will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Shawnee, OK.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral & Cremation Service.