William Edward Matthews, 85, of Suffolk, VA passed away December 15, 2011. He was born in Driver, VA the son of the late Susie Costen Matthews and Willie G. Matthews, Sr. He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley; 3 brothers and 2 sisters. He was a 20 year United States Navy veteran having served during WWII and the Korean War. He also served 10 years in the Naval Reserves. Edward later went on to retire from the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard nuclear tool shops 06 and 51. He was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association for over 50 years. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends fishing and crabbing at Pamlico Beach.

Edward is survived by his daughters, Sherry L. Matthews, Sally A. Matthews, and Susan J. Sharp (Eddie) all of Suffolk, VA; son, Bill "Bump" Matthews (Melanie) of Richmond; sister, Janice Grover; brother, Riddick Matthews; and sisters-in-law, Sally R. and Geraldine Matthews.

A celebration of life service with military honors will be held Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 11 a.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Rebecca Lesley officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the Nansemond Suffolk Rescue Squad at P.O. Box 1515, Suffolk, VA 23439 or the charity of your choice. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.