Joseph Anthony Matthews

Joseph A. Matthews passed peacefully on December 21, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on April 5, 1941, Joe—affectionately known as “Joe” or “Joey”—was raised in Hempstead, Long Island, New York, by his parents, the late Joseph J. Matthews and Vera (Kraniak) Matthews. After graduating from high school, Joe proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. Following his military service, he dedicated his career to public service as a Nassau County, New York, Police Department officer, from which he later retired. He is fondly remembered for his strong sense of duty, commitment to protecting others, and the lasting impact he made on colleagues and the communities he served. Joe was an avid supporter of the American Legion and was also the founder of the Long Island Dart Association, reflecting his love of camaraderie and friendly competition. Upon retirement, Joe moved to Brosville, Virginia, where he lived for the past 29 years. He cherished the peace and quiet of country life and quickly became an active and beloved member of his community. Among his proudest roles was working with the Tunstall High School Marching Band, “The Trojan Vanguard,” where he served as their equipment driver and supporter. Each summer, Joe joyfully opened his home to host “Camp Joseph,” a treasured family tradition that brought family and extended family together from across the country for an unforgettable reunion. Joe was known to those who loved him as a gentle giant—a true giver, always ready to lend a helping hand and never expecting anything in return—a father figure to many. Joe was a man of many talents; he was a skilled mechanic with a love of vehicles and camping, especially visits with his extended family in Queen Village Campground in Warrensburg, New York, near Lake George. Joe also loved taking family and friends on cross-country trips in his motorhome. He was also famous for baking the best apple pies, which he proudly shared at family gatherings. Joe had no siblings, but he considered his cousins and close friends to be his immediate family. He is survived by his cousins Joan Crotty and family, Frances Salonovich and family, Dianne Piwinski, Kathy McDade and family, Susan Bogadus and family, and Barbara Steele and family. He also leaves behind his extended family: Suzanne Summers, Jennifer Miles, Virginia Summers, Jacqueline Vinson, and their children; the remaining Morgan clan; the LaBarge family; Jesse Ceely and her son, Judd Ceely; Don and Dolly Supernault; and their families. Joe’s kindness, generosity, and quiet strength will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A funeral service will be conducted on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at the Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel with Father Anthony Senyah officiating. Interment will follow the service in Danville Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home. In memory of Joe and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Nassau County Police Benevolent Association https://www.nassaupba.org/ Brosville Fire & Rescue https://brosvillefire.com/ American Legion Veterans & Children Foundation https://mylegion.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Donate Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is respectfully serving the Matthews family.

Joseph Anthony Matthews

April 5, 1941 - December 21, 2025