On May 3, 2005 John J. (Jack) Matthews passed away peacefully. Mr. Matthews was the loving husband of the late Patricia and the beloved father of Victoria Holly of Darien, CT and John Jr. from Bracey, VA. He is survived by his son-in-law Robert Holly, his daughter-in-law Kim Matthews and grandchildren Kendall and Patrick, Holly, Sean, Paige, Hunter and Devon. Mr. Matthews is also survived by his sister, Joan Flash of Amityville, and the late Dorothy Watras of Garden City.

Mr. Matthews grew up in Richmond Hill and Hollis. He graduated from St. John's Prep, attended St. John's University and graduated from Hofstra University. He had a distinguished military career as a sergeant in the US Army stationed in Germany.

Mr. Matthews started his sales and marketing career at Land O Lakes, left for a career in the textile business first at Dan River, Joshua M. Bailey and finally at Greenwood Mills where he retired as an executive vice president in charge of greigh goods.

His face was a visible force at St. Joseph's where he served as head usher of the 9:15 Mass for over 35 years. He served as president of the Men's Guild from 1978 to 1980 and as basketball coach for 33 years.

Mr. Matthews was an avid golfer and Emeritus member of the Garden City Golf Club. A Mass of Christian celebration took place at St. Joseph's May 6. Interment was private. Donations can be made in memory of Jack Matthews to Hagedorn Little Village School, 750 Hicksville Road, Seaford, New York 11783.