Johnnie Malcolm Matthis

       Johnnie Malcolm Matthis, 71 of Rocky Point began dancing with the Lord on February 11, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear Life Care Hospice in Wilmington after battling cancer.

      Johnnie was born on February 27, 1954, in Sampson County, to the late James Thurman Matthis and Zeannie Bell Register Matthis. Growing up in Sampson County, Johnnie attended Union school and was a 1972 graduate of Union High School. After finishing school, he farmed alongside with his dad until the early 80’s when he began growing hogs for Murphy Farms at “Big Foot Acres.” Later, he worked as a truck driver for Nash Johnson and then S&W Concrete where he retired in 2019. After retirement he began working with Blue Water Motor Sports, until December 2025. He loved hauling vehicles to and from different places. He had the privilege of driving and hauling all types of vehicles, meeting new people and he loved every minute.

     Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife of 24 years, Eloise Meeks Matthis of the home; children, Holli Matthis Sholar and husband Jason of Wallace, Tim Matthis of Clinton, and Richard Meeks of Wilmington; grandchildren, Breanah Sholar of Wallace, Nick Sholar & wife Vanessa of Rose Hill and Brendon Meeks of Rocky Point; great granddaughter Mylee Sholar; sister Lola Mae Matthis of Clinton; special fur babies, Sassy, Abby & Baby Girl; nieces, nephews, many other family members and numerous friends that loved Johnnie dearly. 

     Johnnie loved the simple things in life, he didn’t need much to make him happy, just his bride, his family and maybe a Saturday night dance at the Moose Lodge. The Topsail Moose Lodge held a special place in his heart, it was the place where he met Eloise for the first time, the place they got engaged and the place they were married. If anyone ever saw them on the dance floor, it was easy to see just how in love they were. They loved each other with all their hearts, they always had fun and they lived life to the fullest. Johnnie was a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandaddy, great granddaddy, brother and friend. Everyone that met Johnnie loved and respected him from the very first conversation.

     Johnnie will be missed by everyone that knew him and there will always be something missing from our hearts, but may we find comfort in knowing that he is dancing on the streets of gold in Heaven and waiting for us there.

      A last request from Johnnie was for there to be no ties worn at his service. So please refrain from wearing ties to the celebration of life.

     The celebration of life will be Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 3:00 pm at the Quinn McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw.   The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service

     Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

     A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

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