Opal Matthews

Mrs. Opal Matthews, 84 joined her loved ones in heaven on Dec. 24, 2015. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Ada Payne; husband of 42 years, Dewie Matthews; grandson, Kevin Brown; sisters, Lois Crites, Philis Jennings, Donna Johansan; brothers, Bo, Bud and Joe Payne. Opal is survived by her beloved brother, Irvin Payne and wife, Alpha of Hernando, Miss.; three daughters, Pat Brown and husband Buddy of Lonoke, Fredia Smith and husband John of Austin, AR and Brenda Perella and husband Dan of Bellingham, Mass. She was blessed with nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; many family and friends in Illinois, Mississippi, Arkansas and Tennessee. Opal's life accomplishments include her most treasured years developing the greenhouse program at Lonoke Exceptional Development Center. She loved the clients and staff, growing plants and teaching. She had many happy years working there before retiring. While living in Mississippi, Opal co-owned with family the Roller Derby Skating Rink in Red Banks and 10 commercial greenhouses and a garden center in Victoria. She loved life and was always glad to start a new project or help someone. Her generosity and strength of character was well known. She will be greatly missed. The family will receive friends, Monday, 6-8 p.m. at Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Tuesday, December 29 at Boyd Funeral Home Chapel, with interment to follow in Welcome Home Cemetery, DesArc. Online guestbook, www.boydfuneralhome.net.