Robert V. Matthews

Surrounded by his family, Robert “Bob” Vernell Matthews passed away on October 15, 2024, in Arlington, Texas, at Medical City Arlington after a short illness.

He was born on August 3, 1950, in Andrews, Texas to Chester and Joyce Matthews. Raised in Andrews, Bob graduated from Andrews High School in 1968 where he was known for his fastball and as the best left-handed pitcher at AHS for many years. Immediately upon his high school graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp where he proudly served his country in Vietnam. After Vietnam, he remained in public service and was appointed Justice of the Peace in Andrews, Texas. He married Sandy VanMeter in 1971. Together they welcomed a son, Lance.

Whether it was in the oilfield or on a golf course, Bob was earnest in all his endeavors. He dedicated his life to his family, country, business, community, and hobbies. He led by example and acted with integrity. 

Bob married Kay Stradley in 1976. They enjoyed almost thirty years of marriage together and had two children, Amanda and William. Together, they purchased Billy Walker Trucking where Bob’s entrepreneurial spirit, drive, and determination thrived in the oil and gas industry.

After the untimely death of his beloved Kay, Bob wed Sherilyn Grafton in 2007. Together, they enjoyed traveling and lived in Arizona and Florida before recently returning to Texas. Left to mourn his loss with Sheri is their precious pup, Andrews “Andy” Texas Matthews. 

An avid golfer, Bob could often be found on the golf course. His ashes will be spread on his favorite golf course where he and William shared a lifetime of special memories over challenging courses.

Bob will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, a natural storyteller who never met a stranger, for his ornery sense of humor, for his principles, as a loyal friend, and a golf enthusiast.

Survivors include his wife, Sherilyn, his sons, Lance (Lori) Matthews of McKinney, TX; William Matthews of Midland, TX; daughter Amanda Napoleon of Odessa, TX; stepchildren, Tiffany Wright of Arlington, TX; Joe (Denise) Wright, Jr. of Montgomery, TX; brothers Slugger (Jan) Matthews of Andrews, TX; Mickey (Kay) Matthews of Myrle Beach, NC; and sister Denise (Huck) Cathey of Andrews, TX. He was also the proud grandfather of 11 grandchildren as well as 4 great grandchildren.

Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel of Hope Funeral Home in Hobbs, New Mexico.

Please join the family for his Celebration of Life Gathering and wear burnt orange/Longhorn gear or dress for a round of golf. In lieu of flowers, please donate to:

https://1tribefoundation.org/ or https://www.houseofthesycamoretree.org/.