PLEASE SEE REVISED SERVICE DETAILS:

Mr. Billy Ray Matthews, 93, of Lillington passed away Tuesday, August 3, 2021 at his home. He was born in Harnett County, the son of the late Leslie Matthews, Sr. and Bessie Ennis Matthews. Billy Ray was also preceded in death by his stepmother, Elizabeth L. Matthews and brother, Charles Eugene Matthews. He was an active member of Lillington Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, sang in the choir, and valued his membership in the Simmons Sunday School Class. Billy Ray had a real passion for history and was known as the local historian. He served the community with his dry-cleaning business for over 50 years. Billy Ray was an avid golfer, talented athlete and enjoyed all types of sports. He was a charter member of the Heart of Harnett Playhouse with a real love for the theatre. He loved family and friends deeply. Billy Ray lived his life with open arms to everyone and never met a stranger. In his latter years, Billy Ray's grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him great joy and pleasure.

Billy Ray is survived by his wife of 74 years, Mary Lou Byrd Matthews of the home; daughter, Debby M. Ryan and husband David of Wilmington; son, Danny R. Matthews and wife Susan of Supply; 5 grandchildren, Matthew Clark and wife Jenny of San Diego, CA, Anna Murphy and husband Ryan of Wilmington, Brian Matthews and wife Ginny of Fuquay-Varina, Lauren Smith and husband Chris of Wilmington, Kaley Bowers and husband Michael of Raleigh; 7 great-grandchildren, Madeline, Mason, Seth, Claire, William, Callie, Lennon; sister, Becky Ferrell and husband Landis of Raleigh; brother, Leslie Matthews, Jr. and wife Tunisia of Suffolk, VA; sister-in-law, Sue Long Matthews of Ocala, FL; many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:30 PM Sunday, September 5, 2021, at Lillington Baptist Church with Rev. Daniel Selman officiating.  The service will be presented through O'Quinn-Peebles-Phillips Facebook page.

Flowers will be appreciated, or memorials may be made to Lillington Baptist Church, P.O. Box 670, Lillington, NC 27546 or Boys and Girls Home of NC, P.O. Box 127, Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450.