James Leroy Matthews

Early on the morning of July 13, 2022, James Leroy Mathews heard the Master’s call, and took his wings, to be with the Lord.  James, better known as Leroy was born May 13,1947 in Charles County, Maryland to the late Lawernce James and Mary Butler Matthews.

Leroy was educated by the Charles County  Public School system and graduated from LaPlata High School in 1965.  He was employed by the Naval Research Lab, Washington, DC where he worked for over 32 years retiring in 2003.  During his time there he received numerous awards for his service and made some lifelong friendships. 

On December 9, 1972, Leroy married the loving and caring Joan C. Hancock, their love would stand the test of time, in sickness and in health for over 49 years.  He enjoyed family gatherings where his humor and wit made him the life of every event he attended.  He would always have a smile on his face and a joke or story  to tell.

After his retirement, Leroy never missed his morning with the “Breakfast Bunch'' a group of his old buddies, at the McDonald’s in Bryans Road. From there he had to make his next important daily stop, Marshall Hall Park. This was his time to be one with nature, he would feed the birds, cats, and any other animal that would come his way.  When he had completed his morning routine you could find Leroy watching his sports, from baseball, football, basketball, to house racing. 

In addition to his parents Leroy was preceded in death by his brother, Lawernce James Matthews, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife Joan C. Mathews, brothers; John Lewis, James Robert Mathews, sister; Mary Christine Tartly, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 22, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPlata, Maryland at 9 AM until time of funeral mass at 10 AM.  Internment Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton, Maryland.

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