Roy Matthews, Jr

Mr. Roy L. Matthews, Jr., age 75, passed away Friday, January 2, 2026.

Mr. Matthews was born July 1, 1950, in Rock Run, Alabama, son of the late Reverend Roy L. Matthews and Carrie Dempsey Matthews.

Mr. Matthews had a gifted ear for music and was very talented on the keyboard. He had a special love for cars. He enjoyed baseball, and treasured cheering on his grandchildren in their sports. He was a loving and present father and grandfather, and will be deeply missed.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Matthews is preceded in death by sisters, Sandra Mauldin, and Nora Merritt; brothers: Paul Matthews, Muril Matthews, Arnold Matthews, and Hal Matthews; and special dog, Harley.

Mr. Matthews is survived by his children: Olivia Cornwell and her husband, Jared, and Cassie Matthews; grandchildren: Ryan Cornwell, Rhett Cornwell, and Renley Cornwell; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services to celebrate his life will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 4:00 PM, in the chapel of Smith & Miller Funeral Home, with Reverend Danny Tucker officiating. Military Rites will be performed by the Brown-Wright Honor Guard Post 12. 

Mr. Matthews’ family will receive friends, also on Sunday at Smith & Miller Funeral Home, from 2:00 PM, until the service hour begins.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Polk County Animal Shelter.

The Smith & Miller Funeral home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Roy L. Matthews, Jr.