Donald G. Matthews

In Loving Memory of Donald G. Matthews

November 17, 1950 – October 12, 2025

Donald G. Matthews, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on November 17, 1950, in Paterson, NJ, to the late Agnes and Donald Matthews, Don was raised in Butler, NJ, alongside his siblings — Pamela Walters, Debra Matthews, and Scott Matthews — and his “brother from another mother,” Tommy Commiciotto.

Don’s life was full of passion, purpose, and generosity. A proud graduate of West Virginia Wesleyan College, where he was a member of the Chi Phi Fraternity, Don went on to earn his law degree from Seton Hall Law School. He later became a founding partner at Galante & Matthews, where he was known not just for his legal expertise, but for the personal care and commitment he brought to every client — especially when helping friends and family close on their new homes. He enjoyed many years spent working alongside his father, who had a long career in real estate.

On October 11, 1981, Don met the love of his life, Patricia, on a blind date arranged by their dear friend Vinnie. The two were a match made in heaven and were married less than a year later. They built a beautiful life together and raised their three children in Wayne, NJ. Don was deeply rooted in his faith and community. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church, where he especially loved Bible study. He served on numerous local committees, coached youth soccer, and was a longtime trustee with the Wayne PAL. He also served on the board — and as Board President — at CUMAC in Paterson. For many years, each summer, Don made meaningful mission trips to Red Bird Mission in Beverly, KY, serving others with humility and love. He had many passions, including cooking gourmet meals — a love he cultivated during classes at Arlene Ward’s in the 1990s — and making and bottling wine with good friends. Don was especially known for his infamous red sauce, he served at church Italian nights, in more recent years it became lovingly known as “Pop Pop’s Sauce.” He found great joy in time spent at the Jersey Shore, particularly in Lavallette, and often reminisced about his younger days lifeguarding in Bay Head. But above all, Don’s greatest joy came from his family. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren — whether he was coloring with them at the kitchen table, building towers out of blocks, decorating Christmas cookies, or gathering the whole family for a competitive (and laughter-filled) game of Rummikub. These simple joys were some of his greatest treasures.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Patricia; their children, Katie Barnes (Nick) of Fulton, NY, Donny Matthews (Alicia) of New Caney, TX, and Elizabeth Matthews of Denver, CO; and his treasured grandchildren: Kaylee, Peyton, and Camden Matthews, and Noah, Nicholas, Nathan, Nolan, and Nash Barnes. He is also survived by his siblings, his extended family of loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Don’s kindness, laughter, warmth, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of faith, service, and joy lives on in the lives he touched. 

A Celebration of Don’s Life will be held in November, details to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s memory to The Wayne United Methodist Church, 99 Parish Dr, Wayne, NJ 07470.