Vesta Lucinda Matthews, a vibrant and cherished soul, passed away on January 16, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on June 18, 1940, she spent her life dedicated to her family, friends, and community, leaving behind a legacy filled with love and joy.

A devoted clerk for the textile industry, Vesta was known not only for her work ethic but also for her unwavering commitment to helping others. Her heart extended far beyond her job, as she was actively involved with Bethel Baptist Church, where her love for community shone brightly. A passionate singer, Vesta took delight in the fellowship of song and was a proud member of the Women’s Missionary Union (WMU). Her culinary skills brought warmth to many family gatherings, as she enjoyed cooking and sharing meals with those she loved.

Family was at the very center of Vesta’s life. She is survived by her beloved daughters, Debbie Smith (David) and Beckie Childs (Dann), who carry forward her spirit of love and resilience. Vesta also leaves behind step-children Jason Matthews (Shannon) and Jimmy Matthews, all of whom were blessed to have shared in her life’s journey. Her grandchildren, Kristan Bearden (Chris), Heath Ratliff, and Taylor Childs (Elizabeth) will forever hold cherished memories of their grandmother, as will her great-grandchildren, Andrew Summers, Anna Bearden, Oliver Childs, Olivia Ratliff, Allison Ratliff, and Aubrey Bearden. They were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Additionally, she is survived by step-grandchildren Megan Smith (Dr. Drew Smith) and Isabell Matthews, as well as step-great grandchildren Micah, Mercy and Margo Smith. She is also survived by her special niece, Dana Brothers (Joey); as well as a host of other nieces and nephews.

Vesta’s warm laughter could be heard from miles away as she enjoyed conversations with friends over the phone, often while listening to her favorite country music. An enthusiastic Alabama Crimson Tide fan, her heart would swell with pride during football games, where she cheered passionately for her team. Her sense of community extended to being part of the Bethel Baptist Church Kitchen crew, where she shared her love of cooking and brought people together through food.

Vesta is preceded in death by her cherished husband, Paul Matthews, whose memory she carried lovingly in her heart. She was also preceded by her parents, Houston and Naoma (Mann) Taylor, along with her brothers Bill and Harold Taylor, her sister Mauzell Musick, and her granddaughter, Christie Matthews. Each of them held a special place in Vesta's heart, and their spirits live on through the stories and love she shared with her family.

As we gather to celebrate Vesta’s life, her visitation will be held on January 23, 2026, from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Snead Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM. A burial will take place afterwards at Bethal Baptist Church at 12:00 PM, where we will lay her to rest, honoring the beautiful life she lived.

Vesta Lucinda Matthews will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the immense love she poured into the lives of everyone she met. Her legacy of kindness, faith, and familial devotion will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, serving as a reminder of the beauty of a life well-lived.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Bethel Baptist Church. 

Snead Funeral Home is honored to serve the Matthews Family!