John 'Matty' Matthews, retired state trooper

John C. "Matty" Matthews, 84, of Smyrna, left this world peacefully Monday, July 7, 2014, after a short illness at Kent General Hospital in Dover.

John has joined his fellow troopers that have gone before him to cover traffic control in Heaven. John was so proud of being part of the Delaware State Police, obtaining the rank of captain.

He was born Jan. 16, 1930, in Shenandoah, Pa., the son of the late Joseph and Mary Matthews. He attended Roman Catholic High School in Philadelphia, Pa., and graduated in June of 1948. John joined the Navy and was honorably discharged Nov. 28, 1954.

John obtained many accomplishments in his life. He was the proud father of five children, including three sons, Bruce, Steven and John Jr.; two daughters, Janet and Joanne; 13 grandchildren; and two great-grand children.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary; granddaughter, Shannon Rose; and his special dog and companion, Bourbon.

His favorite past times were winter sports in the Pocono Mountains, Ashbourne Hills Troop I parties, hard hat construction projects from Claymont to Bethany Beach, supervised by Danny Bramble of Penny Hill Construction Co.

John trained his crew well to handle whatever life could throw at them.

He also leaves behind the love of his life, Joanne, who always called him “Matty.” They did everything together during their almost 63 years of marriage.

A viewing for family and friends will be held Monday, July 14, at 2:30 p.m., in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main St. in Smyrna, where funeral services will begin at 4 p.m.

A private burial with military honors will be held Tuesday, July 15, at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Delaware State Police Museum, PO Box 430, Dover, DE 19904.