Thomas F Matthews

Thomas Matthews, 85 of Belleville passed away peacefully on March 22, 2023 after a courageous battle with Melanoma. He was the beloved husband of 43 years of Barbara Matthews (nee Salmon), and devoted father of Kimberly Ann Matthews and her partner Edwin Calderone and Pop-Pop to his granddaughter Fiona whom he adored with every fibre of his being.

The son of Joseph and Mary Matthews (nee Brandhurst), Thomas was born and raised in the City of Newark. He was a dedicated employee of the City that he loved for over 30 years serving as an aide and political advisor to the late Councilman Anthony Carrino. In giving back to his community, Thomas became a mentor to many high school youth as he followed his passion for the game of football. He bacame affectionately known as "Coach" to his players at Barringer, Governor Livingston, Bloomfield, Passaic Valley, Irvington and Elizabeth where he won a State Championship. His storied career culminated in his induction into the Essex County Football Coaches Hall of Fame on July 20, 2020 a moment that he cherished.

Proud of his heritage Thomas served as the Adjutant of the Newark Saint Patrick's Day Parade in 1973 and later continued his support of the parade and his heritage as a founding member of the Vailsburg Irish American Assoc. A self prescribed chef, Thomas was easy to find during family gatherings always in the kitchen with his apron on and towel over his shoulder. If not in the kitchen, he could be found holding court entertaining all the kids with his stories and antics. It was his family that meant more to him than anything in the world.

Thomas is survived by his brother-in-laws John Salmon, William Sr. and Kathy and their children William Jr. and Jacqueline McDyer. He is also survived by his oldest brother Joseph's wife Mary (nee Washington) and her family Eileen Wharton, Joseph and Alison, Kevin and Lynn, Robert and Sandra, Melissa and Patrick, Steven and Leigh. He is also survived by 24 great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased in death by Arthur and Elizabeth Butler (nee Salmon), his Parents Mary & Joe and brothers: Joseph, Ronald, David and his shining star and God daughter Karen Ann Matthews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday April 1, 2023 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the Alvarez Memorial Home (formerly Condon Funeral Home )  684 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032.

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