Gilbert Page Matthews

Gilbert Page Matthews, 95, of Sanford, died peacefully on Monday, September 26, 2022, surrounded by family.

Born in Sanford on May 8, 1927, he was the son of the late Ezra Q. Matthews and Beulah A. Matthews.  He was preceded in death by his wife of forty years Alice McGilvary Matthews; siblings James Matthews, Edna McDuffie, Gaither Matthews and Glenn Matthews; son-in-law Larry Wann; and stepson Mark Oldham.

Gilbert is survived by his wife Maxine Oldham Matthews; siblings Gaynelle Cox and Gray Matthews; daughters Linda M. Wann and Carol M. McDonald; grandchildren Erin (Grey) Allen, Alison (Luke) Arno, Logan McDonald, and Charlotte McDonald; and great-grandsons Wesley and Owen Allen and Davis Arno; step children Donnie (Susan) Oldham, Vicki (Tom) Haislip, and Kristy Oldham; step grandchildren Richard Oldham, Brooks Haislip, Jennifer Oldham Williams, Alex Haislip Martin, Makayla and Spencer Oldham; and several step great-grandchildren.

Gilbert graduated from Greenwood High School in 1944 and followed his family’s tradition in farming and community affairs. He was awarded the Degree of American Farmer during the National Convention of the Future Farmers of America  in 1945.  He worked at the family dairy farm, Hester Wilson, Sandhills Production Credit Association and was the manager of the Farmer’s Cooperative Warehouse.  He served as President of the Greenwood Water System, chairman of the Lee County Soil and Water Supervisors and was a charter member of the Lemon Springs Ruritan Club.  Gilbert faithfully attended and served at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, where he was named Elder Emeritus in 2019.

Funeral services will be held at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church on Thursday, September 29, 2022, at 2pm with burial to follow.  Family will receive visitors following the service in the church fellowship hall.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Andrews Presbyterian Church or an organization of your choice.