George Raymond Matthews

George Raymond Matthews, born September 22, 1939, passed away peacefully with his daughters by his side on August 1, 2025, at the age of 85 in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Originally from Robeline, Louisiana, he was a beloved friend, a devoted father, and a cherished Paw Paw whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and kindness to everyone who knew him.

Others may remember George as a long-time auto mechanic of Daray Motor Company in Natchitoches, or as a long-time member of the Natchitoches Moose Lodge.

Born to Robert Perry Matthews, Sr. and Sadie Lou Dockens-Matthews, George was part of a close-knit family and carried with him the values of hard work, loyalty, and love for his kin. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Euel Matthews, Eura Powell, Robert Perry Matthews, Jr., Margaret Boudreaux, Mary Santoro, Lois Branton, Martha Stewart, and Jo Dean. Though he mourned their loss, he carried each of them in his heart throughout his life.

George is survived by the mother of his children, Rose Morelock, and their two daughters, Tina Matthews and Terri Matthews Reasons (Gary). He was a steadfast and loving presence in their lives, always offering guidance, humor, and support. He also leaves behind four grandchildren: Nick Reasons, Randi Brackett (Nicholas), Lacy Groselle (Michael), and Rachel Oliver, all of whom were lucky to grow up with a grandfather who made them feel deeply loved and endlessly entertained. His legacy continues through his four great-grandchildren: Olivia Brackett, Madison Brackett, Noah Groselle, and Claire Groselle, who will carry forward the memory of their Paw Paw’s gentle, loving spirit.

George's life was defined not just by the years he lived, but by the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the quiet strength he offered in both joyful and difficult times. Whether you knew him as George, Jellybean, Daddy, Poppy, or Paw Paw, you knew a man whose heart was generous, whose stories were legendary, and whose hugs made the world feel safe.

An interment ceremony will take place at 10 AM on August 23rd at Friendship Cemetery (adjacent to Friendship Church of the Nazarene) in Robeline, Louisiana. A Celebration of Life reception will follow from 1-3 PM at the Catholic Daughters of America Hall at 130 Trudeau St., Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Lastly, the family would like to express sincere thanks to the staff and nurses at Natchitoches Community Care Center and also Natchitoches Hospice for their caring and warm support during this difficult time.

In lieu of sending flowers, the family recommends making an online donation to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation ( www.macular.org ).