Billy James Matthews, Sr.: Longs

1939 – 2020

     Billy James Matthews, Sr. of Longs went to be with his Lord on Monday, Aug. 24. He was 80.

     Billy was born Dec. 8, 1939 in Longs to the late Robert James Matthews and the late Isla Lee Hardee Matthews. He was a member of Buck Creek Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, RA Leader, choir member, and Brotherhood. He and his wife volunteered to cook on several missions trips.

     Billy graduated from Loris High School and went on to Horry-Georgetown Technical College. He retired from the South Carolina Highway Department as a Residence Maintenance Engineer after 42 years.

     Billy enjoyed cooking and having family and friends in his home for fellowship. He enjoyed fishing, farming, hunting, and going camping.

     Survivors include his wife, Vickie Dudley Matthews, the love of his life for 53 beautiful years of marriage; two sons, Billy J. “Matt” Matthews, Jr. of North Myrtle Beach and Curtis V. Matthews and wife Tina of Longs; three sisters, Ernestine Stone of Irmo, Fannie Rabon and husband, Hinson of Longs, and Linda Campbell and husband, Ravenell of Florence; a brother, Tommy Matthews and wife, Pat of Longs; four grandchildren, McKinley Matthews, Ethan Matthews, Ella Grace Matthews, and Evan Matthews; and many loving nieces and nephews.

     Billy was predeceased by his daughter, Cynthia “Cindi” Letitia Matthews; a brother, Conrad Matthews; three sisters, Ruby Hardee, Opal H. Allen, and Willie H. Carter.

     Family planned to receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, at Buck Creek Fellowship Hall.

     Graveside services were planned for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, at Bellamy-Brooks Cemetery with Pastor Larry Allen and Pastor Lebron Crisp officiating.

     In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorials be made to Buck Creek Baptist Church Legacy Fund at 11483 Hwy 905 N., Longs, SC 29568.

     A guest register is available here.