Donald A. Matthews (April 19, 1941 - February 11, 2019)

In loving memory of
Donald A. Matthews
  • April 19, 1941
  • -
  • February 11, 2019

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Obituary

“Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.”——-Shannon L. Alder

 

Donald A Matthews’ story began on April 19, 1941 in Harlem New York, the son of the Rev. Walter L. Matthews, AME Minister, and Katie Matthews (Robinson). He was raised in a loving family as one of five children. During his high school years, he became famous as the fastest runner in New York City, winning countless medals for track and field. One of the stories inherent in his legacy was the friendly rivalry between him and Olympic Medalist, John Carlos. It is said that there are a couple of New York City records that have not yet been broken since 1959.

Donald built a successful career at the New York City Housing Authority where he began as Housing Supply Man. Actively seeking opportunities for advancement, he moved through the ranks to become Deputy Director of Management for Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. The Management Department is the largest Department in the Housing Authority which is comprised of 22 divisions. Donald was responsible for managing 350 housing developments, including all personnel. He retired in August 2000 after 38 years with the Authority. His final position prior to retirement was Director of Brooklyn Management. His legacy at the Housing Authority included serving as President of the Wenkroy Club, Inc., President of the Administrative Superintendents Association, service and fraternal organizations within and outside of the New York City Housing Authority.

Donald had a love for cycling, both in New York and Florid. He would often boast about his 40 and 50 mile rides. His carefree and fearless personality led him to ride a motorcycle; he loved his Suzuki 1100. If there was an outdoor event, Donald was a willing participant. He never backed away from a challenge.

After moving to Palm Coast, his civic and community affiliations included the African American Mentoring Program, Flagler County NAACP (Treasurer), Hosts of Palm Coast, City Lites, Just 4 U Productions and Florida Freewheelers. He was a member in good standing at Mount Calvary Baptist Church.

Donald was a devoted family man. On October 19, 1963, he married Mamie B. Pearson, now deceased and they had a daughter Crystal, who graced him with two grandchildren, Matthew and Kiana. Then on October 9, 2015, Donald married Linda Sharpe Haywood. This expanded his family to include step-daughter Erica and step-son Darryl. This honored him with grandchildren Chloe, Taylor, and Anna.

The stories we will all share and tell again are those of a man who would light up the room when he entered. He was the life of a party. He greeted everyone he encountered as though he had discovered a new friend. Don was a man of integrity who had the strength of his convictions; he didn’t have patience with insincerity or foolishness. A fighter to the end, he displayed a gift of tenacity and desire to care for his beloved wife Linda, family and friends. In turn we can all share stories of the man who was always impeccably dressed, willing to share a good time and demonstrated a commitment to those he loved.

Don is survived by wife Linda, extended family Erica Malloy Blake (Earl), Darryl Haywood, Chloe Malloy, Taylor Haywood, Anna Monsalvatge, and father-in law James Sharpe.  He leaves to mourn his loss and celebrate his life, his daughter Crystal Y. Matthews Howard, grandchildren Matthew W. Howard of Norfolk Va., and Kiana I Howard of Queens, N.Y., sister Barbara A. Watson of Dayton, Ohio, and brother Theodore Hayes of Queens, N.Y. Preceding him in death were his sisters Vera and Joan Matthews.

Donald is survived by a host of nieces and nephews living in both Dayton Ohio, and New York City. Lifelong friend, James Goodridge, (Yolaine) and many other loving relatives and friends.

As Donald’s story in this life came to an end , he was cared for with competence, compassion and love by Team 215 Vitas Healthcare.

 

 


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