Matthews, Barbara Jean, 78, of Louisville, Kentucky passed away on April 4, 2016. She retired from St. Anthony's Hospital. After retirement from St. Anthony's Hospital she went to work for Jefferson County public Schools. After leaving Jefferson County Public Schools, she worked at UPS until completely retiring in 2004.
Barbara was born on June 29, 1937, in Louisville, Kentucky to the late William L. Thomas and Margaret L. Faye. She was also preceded in death by her brother, the late William Gregory Chandler and sister, Sharon Snead.
Barbara attended Jefferson County Schools and graduated from Central High School.
Barbara leaves to cherish her memories to her children Gregory Matthews (Cynthia), Wendell Matthews, Lee Matthews (Terri), and Ronetta (Kim) Matthews; 10 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, and a host of cousins, and friends.
As a young adult, Barbara Jean married Charles Matthews, and in that union three sons were born, Gregory Matthews, Wendell Matthews and Lee Matthews. Later, Barbara met Ronald L. Dailey and they had a daughter, Ronetta (Kim) Matthews.
Barbara received Christ at an early age under the leadership of the late Rev. Henry M. Humphrey Sr., at Shiloh Baptist Church and later in life transferred her membership to Cable Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Anthony Middleton.
Barbara loved to cook, bake and make candy. Some of her specialties were Old Fashioned Fudge, Bourbon Balls, Peanut Butter Balls, and Chocolate Peppermint Patties. Barbara enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and in her earlier years Barbara enjoyed travelling.
In 2013 Barbara transitioned into a new phase in life at Christian Health Center West, where she found her new purpose of helping residents who could not help themselves, and she became an advocate for the residents being a voice for those who could not speak for themselves. She was known to straighten things out. She also enjoyed activities, Bible Study, Church Services, arts and crafts, exercise, and outings.
Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, April 11, 2016 at Cable Missionary Baptist Church (314 South Wenzel Street, Louisville, KY), visitation will resume on Tuesday at church from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m.
A funeral service to honor the life of Barbara Jean will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Cable Missionary Baptist Church.