A longtime Lakewood firefighter and former fire chief has died, marking the loss of a respected public servant with decades of service to the township.

Matthews, a Lakewood native, died peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Lancaster General Hospital in Pennsylvania.

He devoted decades of his life to the Lakewood Fire Department, joining Rescue Fire Company #2 in 1974. Known for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to public safety, Matthews steadily rose through the ranks. In 2000, he was appointed Chief of the Lakewood Fire Department, a role he held until 2002. During his tenure, he earned the respect of fellow firefighters and community members for his steady leadership and strong sense of responsibility to the town he grew up in and served.

Born in Lakewood, Matthews was the son of the late Joyce (Kennett) Matthews and Leon B. Matthews.

Outside of his fire service, Matthews was a skilled mechanic with a lifelong passion for cars. He regularly attended car shows in Carlisle and Hershey, enjoyed browsing automotive flea markets, and was known for enthusiastically discussing cars with fellow collectors. He also enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, often with his wife.

Matthews was a devoted Philadelphia sports fan, faithfully supporting both the Phillies and the Eagles.

He is survived by his wife of more than 53 years, Lenore “Lori” Matthews; his daughter, Joyce, wife of Jeremy Cassel; his sister, Diann Testagrossa and her husband Vito of Florida; his brother-in-law, George Reynolds; his sister-in-law, Barbara Burns and her husband Art; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was also known as a devoted dog owner to Winnie and Mack and was affectionately referred to as a “grandpup” grandfather to Eevee and Clifford. He was predeceased by his beloved dog, Zia.

Those who knew Matthews said he will be remembered for his years of service to Lakewood, his mechanical skill, his love of cars and sports, and, above all, his deep devotion to his family.