Lewis J. Matthews

Age 72, was born March 4, 1938 IN Elmira, NY the son of the late Robert O. and Novella Gladys (Fenton) Matthews. He passed away on Sunday, May 23, 2010 peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. His beloved wife of 34 years Darlene L. (Stranger), brothers; Leo, Kenneth, Francis and Carl predeceased him. He is survived by his beloved children, Lewis (Carmen) Jr., Thomas (Kim), Novella (Dave) Kinner, Henry (Terri), Scott (Jessie), Jason (Melissa), Joseph (Kelly) and Amanda (Jaak) Hickey; sisters, Betty Belloma and Phylllis Oliphant; brother, Robert (Rita) Matthews, special sister-in-law, Yvonne (Steve) Kent, special nieces; Ericka and Ashley Kent, along with 24 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, several sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws. Several nieces and nephews. Lewis retired from I. Shulman and Sons as a crane operator after several years of dedicated service.He was very active and devoted to the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of America. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira/Southport, NY on Saturday, May 29, 2010 from 1:30 to 2:30 PM. A memorial service honoring his life will follow the visitation at 2:30 PM. The Reverend Lewis Jenkins will celebrate Lewis's services. He will be laid to rest in the Fitzsimmons Cemetery with his beloved Darlene privately at the convenience of his family. Memorial donations may be directed to Southern Tier Hospice, Meals on Wheels, or to a charity of one's choice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. A "Candle of Remembrance" may be left for the family in Obituaries atwww.olthof.com. THANK YOUThe Matthews family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to Southern Tier Hospice and Meals on Wheels for their faithful service. They especially wish to thank Iva and Kate for their love and care given to Lewis.