Steve Leroy Matthews

Steve LeRoy Matthews was born to the union of Joanne Matthews (also known as Mother Walker) and Malcom Matthews on April 5, 1959, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Stevie is the 4th child of 9 siblings. He grew up with his grandparents Tessie and Harold Jackson in Las Vegas until the age of 14. In 1977 he moved to Seattle, Washington to rejoin his mother and other siblings. He attended Sharples Middle School and was known as the “most popular student” among his peers. He was most noted for his impressive fashion sense and creativity. While a student at Sharples Middle School he met Pat Wright, Founder of the Premier Total Experience NW Choir, and became the first choir director for the school. He later attended Franklin High School where he also sang in the school choir. After graduating high school, he enrolled at Seattle Central Community College and graduated with a degree in Cosmetology.

At an early age, Steve loved attending church services and would “preach” to his siblings while playing “church” at home. He was considered a “church boy” to his family members. In 1977 he became a member at Smith Temple Church of God in Christ (COGIC) in Seattle. He joined the choir, and he later became the choir director. In 2010 he joined Greater Glory COGIC under the leadership of Superintendent Sam. L. Townsend Sr and Missionary Gwendolyn Townsend. He served there until joining Lily of the Valley COGIC under the leadership of Superintendent Eric L. Jenkins and Lady Sophia Jenkins in 2020.

In 1989 Celia, Steve’s older sister, introduced Stevie to Rhonda. Rhonda and Celia were close friends at the time. Steve and Rhonda’s friendship lasted for 10 years, and then in 1999 they married at Power House COGIC. Steve became an honorary father to Pearline Tyson and Michael A. Fisher. He loved Pearline and Michael, and always encouraged them to be their very best. He showed his love and support to them as a father and friend.

Steve went home to be with the Lord on May 21, 2022. He is preceded in death by his parents Malcom Matthews and Joanne Washington, his sister Celia Smith and his son Michael Fisher. He is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda Matthews, daughter Pearline Tyson. Brothers: Alex, Anthony, John, and Kevin. Sisters: Jolanda (Jo-Jo), Janice, and Alma. Grandson Malik Fisher. Aunts: Ellen Dobbs and Alma Owens and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Steve will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on for generations to come.

Homegoing Celebration will be held on Saturday June 18, 2022. Viewing 8:30-9:15 am, Service 9:30 am, Mt. Joy United Methodist Church, 455 Townend Street, Wilm., DE 19801. Interment,  Gracelawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Masks are required.