Jack B. Matthews, age 83, a longtime Cushing resident and pastor, went to be with His Father in Heaven on Wednesday, June 8, 2011.

Jack was born on March 22, 1928 in Rossville, Oklahoma to the late William Spencer and Dorothy Edith Vaughan Matthews.

He grew up in Agra, graduating from Agra High School in 1945.

He entered the U. S. Navy following high school and served during World War II.

After returning from the service, Jack married the love of his life Imogene "Jean" Brixey on November 27, 1947 at Friends Church near Agra.

He worked for Midland/Hudson Refinery for 34 1/2 years. Jack was also a rural mail carrier.

But his love was preaching the word of God. He pastored churches in Hallett, Maramec and the Only Way in Stroud.

They traveled for six years throughout the United States, including Hawaii on their 40th wedding anniversary. He also traveled to the Phillipines twice on mission trips. After returning from travel, they became members of the First Baptist Church in 2003, where he was a deacon and also taught Sunday school and Bible studies. Jack also visited the Nursing Homes and felt blessed upon every visit. He was very committed to the Cushing Food Bank, volunteering to help at any time.

He enjoyed gardening, telling stories and visiting with others. Jack was devoted to his family and wanted his family and others to love Jesus. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He liked to make all the children at the church feel special.

Jack is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jean Matthews of the home; son Dr. Sam Matthews and wife Kathy of Shawnee; daughter Debbie Biby and husband Clifford of Nash, Oklahoma; brothers Jerry Matthews and wife Sharon of Oklahoma City; Larry Matthews of San Jose, California; brother-in-law Bob Brixey and wife Sharon of Oklahoma City; grandchildren Stony and Michelle Biby; Cody and Melissa Biby; Daniel and Yasha Matthews; Nathan Matthews; great grandchildren Bailee, Malachi and Rylee Biby, Kalen, Ashlyn, Lani and Maci Matthews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lois Jacob.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 11, 2011 at the First Baptist Church in Cushing. His son, Dr. Sam Matthews will officiate.

Interment will follow at Tryon Cemetery, Tryon, Oklahoma.