Carlton Edward Matthews, affectionately known as "Bassman," cast his final line on June 3, 2026, at the age of 85 in Corapeake, NC. Born in the beautiful expanse of Bertie County, NC, on October 23, 1940, Carlton lived a life packed with tales worth telling and fish worth catching.

Bassman spent over 23 years as the lead man mechanic at Lipton Tea Company. If you ever enjoyed a smooth cup of tea, you might have Carlton to thank, since he kept those machines purring like well-fed cats.

His passions were as varied as his fishing lures. A founding member of Peanut City Bass Masters, Southeastern Bass Masters, West Chowan Bass Masters, and the Virginia BASS Federation, Carlton was not just a fisherman; he was a legend. He earned the title "Fisherman of the Year" multiple times across different organizations, proving that his talent was no fluke. He set his personal record with a whopping 12 lb 4 oz largemouth bass—though if you asked him, he might've insisted it was a tad bigger.

When he wasn't knee-deep in water, Carlton enjoyed yard work around the home, building things with his hands, and mingling with friends at Hardee's. In his early years, he could be found drag racing at Suffolk Raceway, a pastime as exhilarating as reeling in the big one.

Carlton was greeted at the pearly gates by his parents, Bernice and Stanford Matthews; his loving wife of 37 years, Rosalie Costilow Matthews; and his sister, Margaret Matthews Chaney.

He leaves behind a vibrant family: his children, James "Jimmy" Matthews (Dale), Debbie Matthews Jenkins, Teresa Matthews Truitt (Bobby); grandchildren, Matthew Cole, Lisa Goodman (Dana), Karis Cornett (Nick), Brianne Hill (Ryan), and Maddie Bazemore (Cy); cherished great-grandchildren, William, Aleeyah, Alaynah, PJ, Adam, Zach, and Jax; and nieces, nephews, and four stepdaughters, who added to his already bountiful life.

Join us in celebrating Carlton's life at a funeral service on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 am at CrossPointe Church with Pastor David Sexton officiating. Burial will follow at Holly Lawn Cemetery, where he’ll find his final resting place—hopefully with a good view of the water.

In lieu of flowers, and to honor Carlton’s generous spirit, please consider donating to the American Heart Association. After all, a big heart is what kept Bassman going all these years.