Jerry Franklin Matthews

Jerry Franklin Matthews, resident of Shawnee, OK passed away on Wednesday, January 12, 2022. He was 84 years old. A funeral ceremony for Jerry will be held on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 2:00 pm in the Walker Funeral Chapel. Following the ceremony, Jerry will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery. Casketbearers will be: Kirk West, Rory West, Clay Nelson, Jerry Matthews, Jr., Jon Bristow, and Randy Penson. Viewing will be on Monday, January 17th until 6:00 pm.

Jerry was born on May 6, 1937 in Bakersfield, CA to his parents, Perry Franklin Matthews and Bertha Lillian Fullerlove. Jerry moved with his family to Shawnee at the age of 5 and graduated from Shawnee High School. After graduation, Jerry joined the United States National Guard. He moved back to California after an honorable discharge from the National Guard and worked at an electrical company. Following the passing of his father, he moved back to Shawnee. He retired from Tinker Air Force Base in 1974 and owned rental properties in the Shawnee area.

Outside of work, Jerry loved to play the drums. He played all through school and was the drummer for several country music bands. He was also a professional motorcycle racer from 1967 to 1975. During that time, he married Roberta Matthews. Jerry was also a member of Liberty Baptist Church.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Wanda June Penson, brother-in-law, Lloyd Penson, brothers, Bill Matthews and Jack Matthews, sister-in-law, Ruby Matthews, nephew, Billy Matthews, and niece, Phyllis Plumlee.

Survivors include his sons, Clay Nelson of Shawnee and Jerry Matthews, Jr. of Shawnee, brother, Charles and wife Pat of Seminole, granddaughter, Macy Nelson of Shawnee, nephews, Cash Matthews, Carey Matthews, Randy Penson, Larry Penson, Dennis Penson, niece, Betty Matthews, as well as several great nieces and nephews.