Euloranette "Lorie" Matthews, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, at Cedar Grove Nursing Center in Williamstown, New Jersey. Born on January 22, 1956, in Trenton, New Jersey, Lorie's life was a testament to love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to family and community.
Raised in Trenton, Lorie graduated from Trenton Central High School in 1974, where she was an esteemed member of the Mercer County Debutantes. She continued her education at The College of New Jersey, earning an associate's degree in General Studies. Her professional journey led her to the New Jersey Department of Corrections, where she served as a Senior Officer for many years. Through her dedication and service, she earned numerous honors and accolades before retiring in 2010.
In retirement, Lorie embraced life fully, treasuring time spent with loved ones while maintaining her independence. She was an active member of the Eastern Stars and lent her time to various charitable organizations, always eager to support her community.
Lorie was united in marriage to Mitchell W. Matthews, with whom she shared many years before their amicable separation in 1998. Their union was blessed with a son, Todd Matthews, whose love and devotion brought immense joy to Lorie's life. She took great pride in her role as a grandmother, cherishing every moment with her grandchildren-Quincy, Tatiyana, and Preston Matthews-who were the light of her life.
A woman of deep faith, Lorie found strength and solace in her relationship with God. She actively participated in church revivals and leaned on her spirituality to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience.
Lorie's vibrant personality shone through her love for storytelling, social gatherings, and forming lifelong friendships. Known for her impeccable sense of fashion and passion for shopping, she carried herself with elegance and confidence. An avid baker, she delighted many with her delicious cakes, pies, and cookies, always sharing her culinary talents with those she loved.
Lorie leaves behind a devoted family who will forever cherish her memory: her son, Todd Matthews, and his wife, Josieanne; her treasured grandchildren, Quincy, Tatiyana, and Preston Matthews; her brother, Gerald Perry, and his wife, Twanda Perry; her sister, Sheila Mims, and her family; and her sister-in-law, Gwendolyn Carter, and her family. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends, especially those who provided care and comfort in her time of need.
She was preceded in death by her mothers, Estella Wharton and Willa Mae Gaddis, and her father, Chester L. Gaddis; her brother, C.W. Carter; her sisters, Deborah Queen Carter and Lenette Brown; her beloved aunts and uncles, including Aunt Alma, Belle Lyles, and Uncle Paul; and cherished cousins from the Powe, Powell, Sims, Gaddis, Carter, Mims, Matthews, and Perry families. She is also reunited with her late sisters-in-law, Agnis Lee of Illinois and Theresa of Florida, as well as her late brothers-in-law.
Lorie's legacy of love, generosity, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, but the countless memories shared with her will remain a source of comfort and inspiration for years to come.
Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Saturday, April 12th from 9:00- 11:00 AM at Kingdom Life Christian, 269 Greentree Rd., Sewell. Home Going Service will follow at 11:00 AM. Interment Hillcrest Cemetery, Hurffville.
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