Harry Leon Matthews, 96, of Jacksonville, passed peacefully at his home April 5, 2021. He was born on November 28, 1924 to William and Gladys Matthews in Bradford, Arkansas.
Harry honorably and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He was a WWII 6th Marine Division Veteran and a Purple Heart Recipient. Harry was a member of First Baptist Church of Jacksonville for 69 years. He was a 32nd degree Mason and a retired member of the Local 295 IBEW. Harry loved being outside- especially on his riding lawnmower.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria, of 63 years (Mother’s Day 2014); his youngest daughter Debra (2011); and his grandson Adam (2013).
He leaves behind his daughters Sherry (Jim) Slaughter and Nancy (Jack) Ide of North Carolina; son David (Kerry) of Cabot; 3 grandsons Leon (Erin), Aron (Sarah), and Jacob; 5 great-grandchildren Madason, Mason, Owen, Finley, and Olivia.
Harry’s family will be receiving friends at A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville from 8:30-9:30am on Thursday, April 9th, 2021. Graveside Service will be at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Ave, North Little Rock at 10:00am.
In light of the current health concerns, Harry’s family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers if you are not able to attend the service. Please be aware, as per Arkansas directives, attendance will be regulated in accordance to Arkansas guidelines, all guests in attendance will be required to wear masks/facial coverings and social distancing guidelines will be in place.
Arrangements entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400
7 Comments
Good friend and brother
Honorable man of God, Family, & Country you will be greatly missed
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Officers, Members & Staff of Local Union 295, IBEW
On behalf of the Denton Family , our Condolences and Prayers to your Family.
Harry and Gloria were life long
Friends of our Family.
Outstanding Lineman and Member of the IBEW , LOCAL 295. I Remember Harry at all the Union Picnics at Burns Park. A Combat Veteran that served his Country well.
Retired IBEW member
We will always miss Mr Matthews. He is the last WWII veteran I knew. He raised his American flag every morning and lowered that evening. Our prayers for David, Kerry, Nancy & Sherry & Family for the death of their Dad. His legacy will always be remembered.
Our prayers are with you and your family David.
So sorry for your loss and offer my sincere condolences. He was the oldest member of our Masonic Lodge. With his passing, I’ve been told, leaves me to labor on and carry the torch at the age of 92. I am so sorry that I was unable to attend the services but at my age doctors appointments had to take precedence. It has been a long time since I’ve had a chance to talk with him but believe he is in a much better place than we. God knows best and may He who knows all and sees all wrap his ever loving arms around you, the family, and grant you peace you so richly deserve. God bless you, the family, during this grief period. Look forward to seeing brother Leon, his grandson, in the near future.
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