1934 ~ 2025
On July 3, 2025, Orson Keith Matthews, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away in Sandy, Utah at the wonderful age of 90.
Orson Keith Matthews was born September 10, 1934, in South Gate, CA the second of four children, to Charles Orson and Lorana (Owens) Matthews. Keith lived life to the fullest; offering a smile and a greeting to everyone who crossed his path. He had many wonderful memories from his time growing up in Southern California. He loved sports, particularly basketball and baseball. He graduated from South Gate High School in 1952. Following a two-year courtship, Keith married his sweetheart, Barbara Grace Neese in the St. George, Utah temple on June 28, 1955. They settled down in South Gate, California where they raised their four children. The week before his passing he and Barbara celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.
Keith found joy in working hard and providing for his family. He went to work for the Pacific Bell Telephone Company in 1958. In 1981, to be closer to their grandchildren, he transferred to Utah working for Mountain Bell. In 2001 after a 43-year career with the phone company, he retired. Not one to remain idle, he got a part-time job with Kohl’s in 2004 which kept him busy for another 15 years.
Keith was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many capacities in the church, including counselor in the Bishopric, Bishop and Primary worker. He and his wife also served as temple ordinance workers. They served together in the Jordan River Temple for 7 years and the Draper Temple for 8 years. But the calling he enjoyed most was being a Primary teacher.
Keith’s ready smile, genuine love of people, and outgoing nature helped him build many lifelong friendships and earned the respect of everyone he met. The role he treasured the most was being a grandpa to his 19 beautiful grandchildren, who brought immense joy and fulfillment to his life. He and Barbara were also blessed with 56 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.
Keith is survived by his wife, Barbara, and their children, Deborah (Paul) Jaroscak, Pamela (Dale) Beaman, Keith (Michelle) Matthews, and Lori (John) Ezzell, and sister, Karen (Tom) Burbach.
Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Orson and Lorana Matthews, his sister, Neva Schroedter, brother, Wayne Matthews, son-in-law Kevin Page, and his great granddaughter, Alexis Faith Page.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service at 10:00 am.
To view a recording of the service, please click on the blue tab above that says "Watch Service".
Uncle Keith was one of my favorite Uncles. My heart and prayers go out to your families. I loved his laugh and hugs. Keeping you all in my thoughts
Love Diane Schroedter Berry
Barbara i am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember Keith as one of the kindest people around with that great big smile always on display. He was always so good to me and my family. We will miss him and want to send love to you and your family. Heaven got a good one with Keith. ❤️
Your father was such an inspiration in my life —I’ll never forget the kindness he showed me.
Nothing I can say will take away the pain you’re experiencing. Just want you to know that I care about you and family, and I share in your sadness.
May you look back on the precious memories and find peace in knowing that your father was amazing person.
Keith was such a friendly man. Everyone was his friend. He will be remembered by all. He is with Don now remembering all they did together. He was the big brother he never had. He was the example for Don to follow as they were growing up.
Deepest sympathy goes to all the family of Orson Matthews who are feeling the loss of this wonderful man. Loved reading the beautiful tribute to him in his obituary, and believe that comfort comes in knowing he has been reunited with Jesus and all of his loving family and friends who have passed before him. Sending heartfelt prayers.
Our condolence to Barbara and their family. It is comforting and exciting to know that you will soon be with Keith again. We send our love to you.