Obituary of Joseph Lee Matthews

“Joseph (Joey) Matthews passed away at the age of 22 on Friday, February 26, 2021 in Melbourne, Florida.  Joey fought long and hard through his battle with traumatic brain injuries due to a traffic accident endured when he was 16 years old, but not without leaving his mark on the world.  Though he left this world too soon, he left it a better place.  He was a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to many.”

 “He is survived by his parents, Jeremy and Rachael Matthews, as well as his sister, Katie and brother, Kaelin, and his grandparents, Joseph and Jane Matthews and David and Pamela Gillespie.  He leaves behind his Uncles:  Justin Matthews, Joshua Matthews, and Alan Gillespie and Aunts:  April Blackstone and Jan Gillespie.  He also leaves behind too many friends to list and his cat, Precious, who will miss him more than words and meows can ever express.”

“Joey was known for his enormous, warm and kind heart, his extreme compassion and his love for computers.”

Even though at times it was so difficult for him, his love, joy and courage to keep others going and making them laugh was inspirational.  He had a big hug and smile for everyone.  He was with you through thick and thin.  At the end of the day, he would prioritize you and your safety over anything he was doing.

A public memorial service will be held for Joey at Beach Funeral Home, 1689 South Patrick Drive, Indian Harbour Beach, FL on Friday, March 5, 2021.   Viewing is from 3pm to 6pm with a service, officiated by Pastor Linda Howard, the Special Gathering, immediately following at 7pm.  All are welcome.

In honor of Joey’s celebration of life, flowers can be sent to Beach Funeral Home and donations can be sent to the Special Gathering, a ministry dedicated to bringing the good news to the developmentally and intellectually challenged community at P.O. Box 6002, Vero Beach, FL 32961.

We love you Joey and you will be in our hearts forever.