Joy Wanda White Matthews, 80, of Spring Hill

Joy Wanda White Matthews, 80, of Spring Hill, FL (formerly of Jasper, IN), passed away peacefully and entered the Gates of Heaven on February 19, 2024. Born on March 12, 1943, in Princeton, W.Va., Joy's life was a testament to love, family, and adventure. 

She had a passion for crafting, cherishing moments with her family, and cruising the world alongside her beloved husband, Lewis Matthews. Together, they built businesses across several states, leaving a legacy of hard work and dedication. In Jasper, they were known for their ownership of the Corner Store and Deli on Newton Street, where they passionately supported the Jasper Wildcats and held season tickets for many years. Later in life, Joy and Lewis retired to Florida, relishing in the warmth, boating adventures, and the joy of hosting family and friends in their home. 

Joy was preceded in death by her loving parents, Walter Thomas White and Nancy Jewell White, along with Montry A. Syers, her cherished husband, Lewis Matthews, granddaughter Laura "Ashley" Matthews, sister Rebecca Pack, and brothers James Davis, Edward Davis, and Cecil Davis. 

Left to carry on her legacy are her children: Jerry Matthews of Jasper, IN, John Matthews of Va. Beach, VA, Stephanie Matthews Crockett of Jasper, IN, Tina Simpson of Buena Vista, VA, Dean Matthews (Alyssa) of Palmyra, VA, and Mark Matthews of St. Petersburg, FL. 

Joy adored her grandchildren Nicole Joy Yates, Jasper,IN Kristen Simpson, Buena Vista,VA, Caleb Peltier, Jasper, IN, Aaron “Cody” Peltier(Grecia), Jasper, IN, Christian Peltier(Victoria), Tabitha Crockett, Jasper, IN and Cayden Crockett, Jasper, IN. She had 10 great-grandchildren with whom she found immense delight in their presence. Joy is also survived by her dear sisters: Janice Readle (Joe), Linda Hill (Lonnie Bailey), Sheilah Halker (Will), Carol Barton (Ronald), Teresa Jennings (Frankie), Vickie Fife (Matt); and brothers: Kenneth Whitlow (Shelia), Choskey White (Wendy), Timothy White (Cathy), Robert Williams (Rosemary); and her beloved brother-in-law Nick Matthews (Kathy). 

While her family grieves her loss deeply, they take solace in the thought of Joy and Lewis reunited once more. 

Details for a Celebration of Life will be shared at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made to: 

In memory of Joy Matthews/Redemption Christian Church, 1450 Energy Drive, Jasper, IN 47546. Joy's memory will forever remain a beacon of love and light in the hearts of those who knew her.