Mr. Jason Matthews

JASON MATTHEWS was born July 20, 1965, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the union of James D. Matthews and Valaska Horton Matthews. He was raised in the Garden Homes Community and enjoyed the wonder and beauty of Lincoln Park and Garden Homes Elementary School. He graduated from Whitefish Bay High School, in 1983. Jason loved football and was offered a scholarship to Jackson State University, from which he received his Bachelor's Degree, followed by Winona State University for post graduate studies in, Social Work. Jay loved music. Many remember him as a tenor with the Heritage Chorale of Milwaukee as they entertained various organizations and congregations through the pain and splendor of Negro spirituals and classic songs of faith, justice, courage and love. He also enjoyed strumming his guitar; creating new chords, and lyrics. He and his cousin, Ii Speech" of A. D., often harmonized and toyed with raps. They loved "Prince". Big Jay, as he was affectionately called, also loved working with students at the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Learning Center. where his skills as teacher. counselor and listener were most evident. His students knew they were loved and respected. They knew he would guide them to their individual and collective successes. Jason was firm, with an expectant love and smile, as academic recommendations were freely given. He never wanted to lose a single student. He understood the challenges and encouraged them to always do "your best". Jason cherished family. He was devoted to his mother. Valaska, and treasured their times together, particularly during the throes of the pandemic. His nephews, Terrance and Joshua and nieces, Jessica, Emelia and Eden were his joy! "Uncle Jay" will be forever remembered for his wit, stern lessons, and his laughter! He was preceded in death by his father, James D. Matthews; and sister, Victoria Suzanne Watkins. He leaves to mourn his passing: mother, Valaska Horton Matthews; brother. David Matthews, MD; uncles, Michael Horton and Wilbert Horton; nieces, .Jessica Williams, little Johnna, Emelia and Eden Matthews; nephews, Terrance and Joshua Watkins; and a host of other aunts, uncles, cousins and friends in Milwaukee; Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, and Virginia. Inspiration: Jason posted this on his Facebook when Prince died. HE CRIED. WE CRIED.

Mr. Jason Matthews

July 20, 1965 - September 17, 2021