Obituary of Joyce Matthews

Joyce Ard “Mama Jo” Matthews, 88, widow of Kenith Merldon Matthews, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2024. Born on February 6, 1936, in McColl, she was a daughter of the late Harley Ard and the late Lula Driggers Ard. Mrs. Matthews was a devoted member of Ringel Heights Baptist Church where she served in numerous capacities including the kitchen committee, keeping the nursery and singing in the choir. She was a part of the Senior Adult Sunday school class and ladies’ auxiliary. Mrs. Matthews dedicated her life to the service of others, she was “Volunteer of the Year” for the Salvation Army and helped her husband lead Sunday school at South Island Assisted Living for 25 years. “Mama Jo” was not just a mother to her own, but to anyone who needed a home and a mama’s touch. She enjoyed the simple things in life such as going for a walk, cooking, and fishing. Survivors include four children, Charlene Jordan (Junior) of Georgetown, Pat Matthews (Renee) of Georgetown, Tony Matthews (Kathy) of Georgetown and Terry Matthews (Sandy) Manheim, PA; a daughter-in-law, Ginger Ogburn-Matthews, 13 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; one brother, Edward Ard of Eden, NC; a sister-in-law, Pat Ard of Johnsonville; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by four children, Rick Matthews, Billy Preston, Kenny Matthews and Frank Matthews; a grandchild, Keli Matthews; a great-grandchild, Joshua Ward, Jr.; a daughter-in-law, Ferol Teel Matthews; two sisters, Frances Matthews and Judy Allen; four brothers, Evans Watts, Jimmy Ard, Buddy Ard and Roger Ard; and a special nephew, Chris Preston. Funeral services will be held at 3 PM on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Ringel Heights Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Pennyroyal Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials may be made to Ringel Heights Baptist Church, 78 Rubin Ave. Georgetown, SC 29440. Online condolences may be left at www.ridgewayfh.com Ridgeway Funeral Home of Georgetown is in charge of the arrangements. (843) 485-4242