Obituary of Mary Jane Matthews

Mary Jane Matthews, daughter of Raymond and Rosemary Knapp, was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, on July 12, 1951, and departed this life on January 8, 2023, at the age of 71, in Denton, Texas. Over the last 10 years, she appreciated the support, love and prayers from her family and friends while struggling with Multiple System Atrophy.

Mary graduated from Lebanon High School in 1969. Mary accepted Christ as her lord and savior in 1971 and was baptized at Hillcrest Baptist Church. On June 25, 1971, Mary was united in marriage to the love of her life, Ben Ross Matthews. Together they shared the next 51 years of love, laughter, and precious memories, while raising their family.

Mary attended many Baptist Churches in St. Louis, MO, Charlotte, NC, Fountain Valley, CA, Stratford, MO, and Columbia, MO, however, in later years it became difficult to attend church.

Those left to celebrate her life include her husband, Ben; three daughters, Barbara Matthews of Keller, TX, Rebecca Cornelius and her husband John of Conroe, TX, Elizabeth Haynes and her husband James Michael of Keller, TX; four granddaughters, Hailey Pereira, Abigail Haynes, Emily Haynes, Samantha Haynes; and one grandson, Ben Gowan; along with several other relatives and many dear friends.

Mary was a wonderful wife, mother, and friend. She provided an inspiring home for her family. Mary raised her daughters so that they would achieve whatever career they wanted and provided the support for them to accomplish their goals. Mary always put her family’s needs before her own. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to MSA at Support.multiplesystematrophy.org

A private graveside will be held at a later date at Lebanon Missouri City Cemetery.