Lt. Charles Henry Matthews

Lt. Charles Henry Matthews, U.S. Navy (Retired), passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, at the age of 79. A man of service, strength, and unwavering dedication, he lived his life committed to his country, family, and the values he held dear.

Born to Robert and Mollie Matthews, Charles began his military career as an enlisted sailor and rose to the rank of Lieutenant through hard work and determination. He was proud to be a "mustang," earning his commission by grit and merit. For more than two decades, he trained and led men and women in service to, and in defense of, the United States. After retiring from the Navy, Charles continued his mission as an ROTC instructor, preparing young people to become this nation's next generation of defenders.

Though he was a military man through and through, Charles was also a vibrant member of his community. His home was always open—a hub where neighbors, friends, and family found meals, clothing, care, laughter, and sometimes a stern word of advice. He was not a man of many friends, but always supportive. If you needed something, you could count on him.

Charles had a way of viewing life through the lens of war. He was known to say: "In the war between flesh and metal, metal wins. In the war between flesh and wood, wood wins. And in the end, in the war between time and flesh, time has won." Yet while time claimed victory, the lessons he taught and the love he gave endure.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie; his son, Robert Toon; his parents, Robert and Mollie; his brothers, Bob and Jim; and his sister, Marie.

He is survived by his children: Charles Matthews Jr. (Amy), Gary Matthews (Shannon), Jennifer Ezell (Kane), and Annie Thompson (Todd); and by his beloved grandchildren: Sarah, Nathan, Grace, Stella, Michael Jack, Lily, Averi, Alex, Abby, Ella Kate, Caroline, and Nora.

There will be a graveside service with military honors on September 27th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Lakeland Place in Flowood, Mississippi. Please come dressed for the weather and as casually or dressed up as you wish; boating attire is a plus. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you have a cookout, invite your neighbors, and share stories of the sea. And if you don't know any, make them up—the more grandiose, the better.

Fair winds and following seas, Lieutenant. You are relieved.