Buford Matthews

Obituaries

Wednesday, 17 August 2022 05:48

Mr. Buford Hubert Matthews, 90 of Jacksonville and formerly of Bridgeport, passed away on Thursday, August 11, 2022. Services were held on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at Rudder Funeral Home with Rev. Kyle Bryan officiating. Full military honors followed at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.
He lived a wonderful life surrounded by a loving family and his love for the Lord. He was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport for 72 years and was a current member of First United Methodist Church in Anniston. He served this country for 27 years in the United States Army and National Guard and was the mayor of Bridgeport for four years. He was also a member of the Bridgeport Masonic Lodge for over 50 years and served as Worshipful Master. He fought in the Korean War, earning numerous medals for his valor, but he would tell you his greatest memory was meeting Marilyn Monroe. He loved deep sea fishing with his buddies and even caught a seven-foot bull shark on one of his trips. Mr. Matthews was a die-hard Alabama football fan and never missed a chance to yell, roll tide. He lived an exceptional life and touched many with his sweet spirit.
He is survived by his daughters, Stephanie (Derek) Matthews-Jewell, Jo (Alan) Clayton; grandchildren, Jordan (Josh) Allen, Alan Melson; great-grandchildren, Rylee Allen, Cade Allen; sister, Mary (Carl) Ruth; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Patricia Matthews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Shepherds Table of Anniston First United Methodist Church. The family wishes to publicly thank Grace Hospice, Azalea Estates of Fayetteville, Georgia and Legacy Village of Jacksonville for all the kindness and care given to Mr. Matthews.