Lela M. Matthews, 78, of Laurel, MS passed away Friday, November 28, 2025, at her residence. She was born Wednesday, September 3, 1947, in Bay Springs, Mississippi.

Graveside Services are scheduled at First Pentecostal Church of Bay Springs Cemetery, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2:00 PM.  Bro. John Bowen will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Bay Springs oversees arrangements. 601-764-2181

Mrs. Lela enjoyed growing butterbeans, okra, tomatoes, and all kinds of vegetables in her garden, and loved watching her birds. She was a lifelong member of First Pentecostal Church of Bay Springs, and a Christian by faith. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. Mrs. Lela was a wonderful mother and always provided for her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry M. Matthews, Sr.; her son, Darrell Lee Matthews; her parents, Robert Quitman, and Mildred Leona Williams; her brother, Jerry Williams; and sister, Cheryl Stuart.

Survivors include her sons, Terry Parker and Larry M Matthews, Jr. her daughter, Tammy Chisholm; her brother, Robert L Williams; her sister, Ann Mulhern; her grandchildren, Derek Parker, Jordan Parker, Wesley Williamson (Laura), Trace Matthews (Swayzie), Sierra Chisholm, Lara Matthews, Triniti Matthews and Paislee Munn; her great grandchildren, Kylie Bush, Rayna Williamson and Emmitt Williamson and a host of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Derek Parker, Wesley Williamson, Trace Matthews, Jamie Chisholm, Carlton Edwards, and Jerald Chisholm.