Mr. Franklin Ray Matthews, 82, of Willard passed from this earthly life to his eternal rest on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, while surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on August 11, 1941, in Pender County; the son of the late Fred and Hazel Murray Matthews. Mr. Matthews was also preceded in death by his brother Tommy Matthews and sister Joyce Alabaster.

Mr. Matthews was a lifelong member of Antioch Church.  He was the owner and operator of Mr. Clean Cleaning Service for over 30 years serving Pender County and the surrounding areas.

Surviving is his best friend and devoted wife of 63 years, Linda Mills Matthews; his children, Beth Matthews Knowles and husband Glenn and Franklin Brent Matthews and wife Beth, all of Willard; grandchildren, Matthew Knowles and wife Heather, Mallory Matthews Outlaw and husband Michael and Adam Matthews and wife Kenzie; great grandchildren Jase Knowles, Bray Knowles, Luke Matthews and James Outlaw; brother Larry Matthews and wife Alice of Wilmington; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Ray was a loving husband and caring father, grandfather and brother who loved his family dearly.  He was a hard worker who enjoyed helping others.  As most people affectionately called him, "Mr. Clean" was a happy, always smiling man who loved people and never met a stranger.  He enjoyed the family trips every year to the mountains, which they did every year for 30 years. Ray loved to laugh and make others laugh with him.  As someone once said, "you were always a better person when you left Ray than you were when you came."  Ray will surely be missed. Treasured memories of him will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Funeral service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Friday, March 8, 2024, at Antioch Church in Willard with the Reverend Tommy Blanton officiating.

Mr. Matthews will be interred at a private family graveside service at F. Ray Matthews Cemetery.

You may share your memories and send condolences to the family by selecting our "Tribute Wall" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wallace is serving the family of Franklin Ray Matthews.