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Celebrating the life of

Walter Wesson Matthews

January 31, 1923 - February 14, 2023

Walter Wesson Matthews

Walter Wesson Matthews (Matt), 100 passed away peacefully on February 14, 2023. Matt was born in Brunswick County, VA on January 31, 1923 to Earnest and Isla Matthews.

After high school he served an apprenticeship at Newport News, VA. Shipbuilding, then moved to Savannah to work in the local shipyard. He joined the Army in 1943. He served in WWII in the Philippines. In Savannah, he met his wife Estelle (Stella) Davis. They were married for 52 years. After Stella’s passing in 1995, he married Audrey Cason Marston. They were married for 21 years until her passing in 2016.

Matt was an active participant in many areas. He served as board chairman of his church Whitefield Methodist Church, President of the Exchange Club, Chatham County Commissioner and board member of Memorial Hospital. In recent years, Matt devoted much of his time and effort to building a program of the Georgia Masonic Children’s Home in Macon, GA.

Matt borrowed $750, guaranteed by Veteran’s Administration. He bought a wielding machine and other tools to start his business dream. From this beginning, he started Meco, Inc and Dixie Powertrain operating in Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida.

Matt is survived by his daughter Stelly Matthews Driggers of Rincon, GA, 7 grandchildren Jody (Tricia), Marcus (Amanda), Kelly Driggers, Wendy (Calvin) Carter, Trey (Mimi), Matt and Wesley Knight, and 9 great-grandchildren, son-in-law Carlton Knight, and nephew Jimmy George.

Matt was preceded in death by his parents Earnest Matthew and Isla Wesson, his daughter Isla Jean Matthew Knight, his brother Earnest Ogburn, Jr, his sister Major Thelma Matthew, RN and his son-in-law Ronnie Driggers.

The family would like to thank Oaks at Pooler and Pruitt hospice.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel with Pastor Billy Whitaker officiating. Interment will be in Greenwich Cemetery with Military Honors and Masonic Rites. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday evening, February 20, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of Mr. Matthews to the Masonic Children's Home, 1417 Nottingham Drive, Macon, GA 31211

 

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

One of the best men with a caring heart for others. Any one who knew him loved him. We pray that God will grant each of you an extra measure of grace during this difficult time. RIP MR MATTHEWS YOU WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY

- Perry and Jennifer Lynes, Ellijay , Ga

I grew up with the Matthews at the old German Country Club. They were the sweetest people. Remembering when Jeanie and Stella were born, they let my cousin and I keep them in the baby pool. Later in life my parents reunited with Matt at Whitfield Methodist. When my daddy was home bound, he and Audrey would bring them dinner once a week. He was a very kind man and a good friend. I send my sincerest sympathy.

- Evelyn Steadwell Temple, Lexington, , S.C.

I am so sorry to hear of Mr Matthews passing. I have fond memories of him growing up and being at the Knight house with Miss Jeannie and the boys. Sending our prayers and love…..

- Stephanie Orne , Savannah , GA

“I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing your dad, but I’m sure he was a special person because he raised an amazing human being: Stelly Wishing you and your family peace and comfort during this unimaginable time.”

- Susan and Rober Koss, Las Vegas, NV

Walter was my father’s first cousin and first mentor; Tom Jr. admired Walt and enjoyed visiting him over the years. I join my step-mother Elaine and all our family in sending condolences and best wishes.

- Thomas R Matthews III, Brooklyn , NY

Matt and your Mother were such such caring people. I have many happy childhood memories of our parents, you and your sister in our early years. We extend our sincere sympathy to you and your family. Pamela Nettles Karacostas and Dale

- Pamela Nettles Karacostas, Savannah, GA

I’m Very Sorry To learn of Matt’s Passing. He was a Very Fine Man and a Great Stepfather . He Will Be Missed By All that New Him

- James Marston, Tybee Island, GA

In a person's lifetime you may come across that individual that will always hold a special place in your heart and even your life. Mr. Matthews, you are that individual to me and my son. The times we spent talking about LIFE I will never ever forget. My son and loved being in your presence. Jeremiah and I will never forget you. Rest on my friend, JOB WELL DONE. I will never say "goodbye". I will see you later.

- Henrietta Cason, Hinesville, Georgia

As a second generation owner of Meco-Florence, I will always be thankful for the impact Mr. Matthews had on my family. My father, Rentz Woodruff, went to work for Matt in 1959 and partnered with him to open the Florence company in 1964. My parents thought the world of Matt and Stella, and I'm blessed to have many wonderful childhood memories of special times with the Matthews family. You are all in my prayers.

- Taylor Woodruff, Florence, SC

Our condolences for your loss. Mr. Matthews was a great man and mentor to me. I know that he will be missed by many. Rest in peace my Brother.

- Fred & Ann Kessler III, Guyton , Georgia

Dear Stelly - I well remember your father - and you - from German Country Club days. I'm glad to see that he lived a full 100 years. I know you will miss him and I send my sympathy. Best wishes, Kathleen Brewin Lewis

- Kathleen Brewin Lewis, Atlanta, GA

I am saddened to learn of Matt's passing. I knew him years ago when he was a county commissioner. as he did in all things he was a dedicated commissioner. very good man and always good to me. he gave me very good advice which i always followed,

- PHILIP HINELY, GASTONIA, NC

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200