Mr. Allen J. Matthews, 78 of Lillington died Saturday, December 15, 2012 at Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn. A native of Harnett County, he was the son of the late Junie and Effie Vaughn Matthews. Allen was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary Wimberly and Mozelle McLaughlin; and a brother, C.T. Matthews. He retired from Modern Lightening Protection Company after over 55 years of service to the company.

Mr. Matthews is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carolyn Baker Matthews. Two sons, Jeffrey Matthews of Lillington and James "Skeeter" Matthews and wife Denise of Lillington. One granddaughter, Brittany Matthews, three great grandchildren. Sisters, Margie Ammons and Mildred Bradshaw, both of Coats. Brothers, Billy Ray Matthews of Lillington; Cliff Matthews of Coats; Joe Matthews of Erwin. The family will receive friends at O'Quinn-Peebles Funeral Home Tuesday, December 18 from 2:00-4:00 pm, other times at his home.