Morris Lee Matthews, Sr.

Staff Sergeant Morris Matthews Sr., USAF (Retired) SSgt Morris Lee Matthews Sr., United States Air Force (Retired), a beloved friend, father, and grandfather made his heavenly transition surrounded by family on April 29, 2026, at the Minneapolis VA Hospital. He was born on July 25, 1940, in Chicago, IL to the union of the late William Sr. and Ruth "Frances" Matthews. Morris matriculated through the Chicago Public School system and graduated from Marshall High School in Chicago, IL. During high school he played on the basketball team for all four years. He lived a life defined by dedication, service, and deep love for family and community. He proudly served in the United States Air Force which took him all over the world, including an adventure from Scott Air Force Base to Centralia, IL where he would meet Helena Currie, whom he married on February 14, 1964. After 20 years of honorable service, he retired after earning numerous awards and commendations throughout his career in recognition of his commitment, leadership, and sacrifice. Following his military career, he attended the University of North Dakota and continued his commitment to service through a 25-year career with the United States Postal Service, where he was known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and friendly presence. A proud Master Mason, Morris was also a member of Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and the American Legion. Through these organizations, he remained deeply connected to his fellow veterans, offering camaraderie, support, and continued service to his community. Affectionately known as "Pops" by many near and far, Morris found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved family get togethers, playing bingo, watching movies and sports, bowling, visiting the casino, and spending peaceful days fishing. Above all, he cherished time with his family and friends, who meant everything to him. He is survived by a brother Harold Matthews of Chicago, IL; two sister-in laws Karen Mathews Indianapolis, IN., and Yvonne Matthews Oak Park, IL ; six children, Morris "Weasle" Matthews Jr. (Sharon) of Eagan, MN., Tyrone Matthews (Audrey) of Eagan, MN., Tonya Lawson (Rodney) of Sumter, SC., Rosalind Lynn Matthews of Stockbridge, GA., Valencia "Kay" Matthews of St. Paul, MN., and Tiesha "Squirt" Matthews of Centralia, IL. Along with 16 grandchildren, Dr. Jamie Matthews (Aaron), Jasmine Milons (Jeremie), Jerrel Matthews (Danielle), Devon Matthews, Morris Matthews III, Tiara Thomas (Jaron), Asia Smith (Christopher), Traveon Matthews, Jaelen Matthews, Rayshon Mack, Raven Mack, Caleb Willis (MaKenna), Bendrea Willis, Hannah Willis, Ty'Jhawn Matthews and Ty'Reese Matthews and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helena Matthews; his parents, William Sr. and Ruth "Frances" Matthews; his brothers, William Matthews Jr. and Earl Mathews; one sister-in law Lois Matthews, and his granddaughters, Taressa Renae Smith and Taniya Matthews. Morris will be remembered for his strength, humor, and wisdom. He often left loved ones with his favorite sayings, "Take Care," "Be Cool," and "Be Easy," words that reflected his spirit and the way he lived his life. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Morris Lee Matthews, Sr.

July 25, 1940 - April 29, 2026

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