SEND FLOWERS
Obituary
Benjamin Paul Matthews was born on October 6, 1941, in Elaine, Arkansas, to the late James Matthews and Eveleana Richardson. He was one of nine children. In 1953, he moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he accepted Christ as his Savior and received his education in the Memphis Public School system. At the age of 15, Benjamin relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, where he began working as a cook at Joe Gilbert. During his time in Kansas City, he met and married Marie Herron, and together, they welcomed four children: Donna Herron, Benji Matthews, Evelyn Matthews, and Gloria Matthews. Sadly, Benji and Evelyn preceded him in death.
In 1963, Benjamin moved to Detroit, Michigan, joining his family on Ellsworth Street, fondly known as the “family block.” In 1975, he began working for General Motors at the Spring and Bumper Plant in Livonia, where he dedicated nearly 30 years before retiring. A chance encounter while wearing a patch on his face led him to meet the love of his life, Jennie Clemons. Their connection blossomed, and they married on December 22, 1979. From this union, their son, Adrian Paul Matthews, was born.
Benjamin had a deep passion for life and embraced every moment with joy. He found solace in fishing trips with his son Adrian and nephew Robert, often boasting about his latest catch. He was an avid cyclist, once riding his bike from Ypsilanti to Detroit. Whether pulling his lawnmower behind his bike or taking a chance at luck at the Motor City Casino, Benjamin’s presence was always felt. With a generous spirit, he never hesitated to share his casino comps, offering friends a corned beef sandwich with a smile.
A man of kindness and humor, Benjamin never met a stranger—everyone was a friend. He lived to help others, always ready to lend a hand or give his last dollar. A true handyman, he could fix just about anything. Affectionately known as “BT” by family and friends, he had a signature introduction for newcomers: “Reverend PI Matthews from I BE DAMN, Alabama.”
After a life well lived, full of love and purpose, Benjamin Paul Matthews was called home on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, to rest in the arms of the Lord. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Matthews and Evelena Richardson; siblings Earlena Sanders, Luebertha Matthews, and Beatrice Matthews; and children Benji Matthews and Evelyn Matthews.
Benjamin leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jennie Matthews; daughters Donna Herron, Gloria Wilson, and Cynthia Hardaway Byes; son Adrian Matthews Sr. (Karyne); grandchildren Donald Matthews, Adrian Matthews Jr., Adonis Matthews, Kitha Herron, Danesha Herron, Cassandra Matthews, and Ava Matthews; siblings Erma Jean McGlown, Joyce Alexander, Edward Lloyd, Charles Matthews (Susan), and James Alexander (Betty); as well as a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.
His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
