Gene Matthews, age 79, of Peabody (formerly of Marblehead), passed away at Salem Hospital, surrounded by family, after a brief illness on Aug. 24, 2026. Born in Lynn and raised in Marblehead, Gene attended Marblehead Public Schools and had previously worked for the town of Marblehead. Gene was a long-time member of the Gerry 5 VFA and the Marblehead VFW. An avid sports fan, Gene was a hockey player and spent many years playing softball for the Marblehead VFW and was part of their championship team in the 80s. He loved to watch the Boston Bruins and was even known to sit in full goalie gear on his friend Bill Doane’s couch, during the famed rivalry with the Canadians.
Gene’s pride and joy was his family — particularly his wife of 55 years, Deborah Matthews (affectionately known to Gene as “my Debbie or DJ”). In addition to his wife, he is survived by two children: his daughter, Stephanie Matthews of Salem, his son Kevin Matthews and his longtime partner Kathy Laroque Clancy of Goffstown, New Hampshire. He also leaves one granddaughter Nicole Matthews of Beverly; two great-granddaughters Emilia and Isabella Goodwin, both of Beverly; his brother Richard Matthews (Marsha) of North Carolina; sister Shelia Baines of Texas and dozens of nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Gladys and Leroy Matthews, his sister Gwenna Bergeron and his brother James Matthews.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Sept.1, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St. Salem. Visiting hours will be prior to the service from 4-7 p.m. at the Murphy Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held on Sept. 19, from 4-7 p.m. at the Gerry 5 VFA on Beacon Street in Marblehead. All are welcome to join us to celebrate Gene. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gene’s memory to The American Cancer Society. For more information or online guestbook, please visit murphyfuneralhome.com or call 978-744-0497.
