Gary Fred Matthews, 80, of Raleigh, Mississippi, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, January 5, 2018. He was born Friday, November 18, 1938 in Sylvarena, Mississippi on the family home place, where he continued to live until he passed away.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 7, 2019 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Bay Springs in Bay Springs, Mississippi.

Graveside Services will be held Tuesday, January 8, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Sylvarena, MS. Bro. Davey Hammons will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Bay Springs is in charge of arrangements. (601) 764-2181

Gary was considered to be one of the best bulldozer operators in this area. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and loved raising cattle. He always wore a smile and had a joke and a story to tell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Noel and Willie Mae Matthews; his brother, Larry Matthews.

Survivors include his wife, Ruby Matthews; his daughter, Jana Marie Matthews; three brothers, Noel Matthews, Jr., Carol-Dean Matthews, and Benny Matthews; one sister, Francis Matthews; and several well-loved nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be William Darrell Thornton, Jamie Dupree, Rudolph Craft, Ben Matthews, Josh Matthews, and Russ Clark.

Honorary pallbearer will be Ryan Clark.