Esther Matthews

Esther Olson Matthews, 86, a lifetime resident of the Harbor, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on Saturday, May 26, 2012. She was born in Aberdeen on September 7, 1925, the daughter of Paul and Bertha (Hawkins) Olson. Esther graduated from Weatherwax High School in 1943 and was married to Lester “Buss” Matthews in Aberdeen on January 1, 1944. He preceded her in death on February 17, 2004 after 60 years of marriage. Buss and Esther moved from Aberdeen to the Wishkah Valley in 1960 where they raised their five children. Esther worked at the Wishkah School for a short time and was an Avon Lady and manager for several years. She moved to Leisure Manor in 2005 where she had many friends who she spent her time with playing cards, Bingo and doing crafts. She attended the South Aberdeen Baptist Church. Esther is survived by her four children: Paul Matthews, Aberdeen, Margaret (Jim) Cornell, Gold Bar, WA, Marlene (Leon) Bialkoski, Montesano and Keldy (Cindy) Matthews, Wishkah Valley; and also ten grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Don “Woody” Matthews, in 1975. Visitation will be held from 1 to 8 PM Friday, June 1st in the chapel at Fern Hill Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, June 2nd in Fern Hill Cemetery. Dr. Truett Johnson, pastor of the South Aberdeen Baptist Church, will officiate. Following the service a reception will be held in the Dorothy Mann Reception Room at Fern Hill Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials may be made to the South Aberdeen Baptist Church, 620 Fordney St., Aberdeen, WA 98520 A card of condolence and a message may be sent to the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com Arrangements are entrusted to Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen.