Donald “Don” Marquis Matthews
Obituary
Donald “Don” Marquis Matthews, age 91, of Mechanicsburg, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 28, 2021. Donald was born on December 19, 1929, in Mechanicsburg to the late Charles Russell Matthews and Sadie “Snelbaker” Matthews. Donald was the widower of Ethel Mae (Stambaugh) Matthews, whom he married on June 18, 1955, and who died on March 16, 2017.
Donald is survived by his daughter, Faith Matthews of Mechanicsburg and two nephews: Jeffrey Addison and his wife, Lynn, and Randall Addison and his wife, Leslie, all of Buffalo, NY.
Donald graduated from Mechanicsburg High School, Shippensburg University and Temple University. He was a former member of Grace United Methodist in Harrisburg, Calvary United Methodist in Lemoyne and he is currently a member of Grace United Methodist in Mechanicsburg. He belonged to many educational organizations, the Mechanicsburg Museum Association and the Antique Studebaker Club.
Donald served with the U.S. Army Finance Corps from 1952-1954. He began his teaching career as a Business Education teacher at Big Spring High School in 1955. He then taught Business Education at Northern York High School from 1959 to 1998.
Donald was a devoted husband and father, enjoying many hobbies and pastimes with his family. He could often be seen driving his 1928 Studebaker around town on Sunday afternoons. He enjoyed gardening and was asked to be on several garden tours. Cats were always part of the household. After retiring, Donald decided to take piano lessons to satisfy a lifelong ambition. On summer evenings, Donald could often be found sitting on the wrap-around front porch, surrounded by his favorite wicker furniture.
Donald enjoyed planning family vacations. Over the years, his trips included 49 of the 50 states. Hawaii was on the bucket list. He enjoyed cruises and many trips to the Mohonk Mountain House.
Donald also enjoyed his home in Renovo, PA and made many friends there.
All are welcome to join Donald’s family at his viewing on Friday, June 4, 2021, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a service beginning at 12:45 p.m. all at Grace United Methodist Church, 216 South Market Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with The Reverend W. Michael Langford officiating. Everyone is invited to enjoy one of Donald’s favorite indulgences, pie and coffee, in the fellowship hall of the church immediately following the service. A graveside service and burial will begin at 3:00 p.m. in Rolling Green Cemetery in Camp Hill.
Contributions in celebration of Donald’s life can be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 216 South Market Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; or to the Humane League of Lancaster County, 2195 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602.
Donald’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Donald’s full obituary, view his pictures and memorial video, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.
