Robert A. "Bobby" Matthews, 69, of Van Vleck, TX passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2014, at Matagorda Regional Medical Center. He was born to Sylvain A. "Jack" Matthews and Madelyn Lipscomb Matthews in Bay City, TX on September 28, 1944. Robert graduated from Van Vleck High School in 1962 and later from Sam Houston State University with a Master's Degree.

He spent over 30 years as a teacher and administrator in Bay City ISD. He was the Vocational Director for many years and he influenced thousands of young lives.

Robert was a member of the Matagorda County Cattlemen's Association, the American Quarter Horse Association, and a board member of MEHOP. He was a lifetime member and Past President of Matagorda County Fair and Livestock Association. He was an accomplished horseman who rode a horse every day of his life if possible. Robert was an active member of First Baptist Church and he participated in several mission trips to Honduras.

Those who knew Robert will always remember his kind heart, generous nature, and compassionate smile. He was a friend to everyone he met, and will be greatly missed.

Robert is survived by Sharon Richardson and her daughters Rebecca and Rachel, daughter Samantha Hudgins (Kyle) and grandchildren Sydney and Dawson. Also surviving is brother Jack Matthews (Ollie) and sister Bonnie Barr (Lloyd) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Charles Matthews.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 16, 2014, from 5pm to 7pm at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 17, 2014, at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church, 2321 Ave F, Bay City, TX with Dr. Michael Zimmerman and Rev. Dr. James Ely officiating. Interment will follow at Matthews Cemetery on FM 2540.

Memorial gifts can be sent to MCFLA to the Robert Matthews Memorial Scholarship Fund at PO Box 1803, Bay City, TX 77404.

Pallbearers will be Mark Grisham, Mike Grisham, Cole Grisham, Alan Matthews, Bernard Graham, and Rodney Matthews, Jr. Honorary pallbearers are Wayne Slone, Gene Sorensen, Jimmy Stewart, Gerald Ussery, Bruce Kay, Jimmy Grisham, and Ted Eiland.