On December 29, 1942, the world was gifted with the life and light of Wilbert L. Matthews, born in Alleyton, Texas, to the proud parents of Robert Lee Matthews and Betty Lou Deckard Matthews. He was the oldest of two sons born to that union and grew up under the love and protection with his younger brother, Isaac Matthews.

At an early age, Wilbert accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was baptized by Reverend F. N. Williams at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Eagle Lake, Texas, and from that day forward, his life would be one marked by quiet strength, servant leadership, and a steady faith that never wavered.

Wilbert attended Carver High School in Baytown, Texas where he shined both academically and socially. He would go on to enroll at Prairie View A&M University, but when duty called, he answered with courage and honor, enlisting in the United States Army, where he proudly served as a Sergeant during the Vietnam War. His valor, leadership, and commitment to service earned him not only medals but the deep respect of those who served alongside him.

Upon completing his military service, Wilbert returned to Prairie View A&M University to fulfill a promise he made to himself earning his degree in Liberal Arts. During his time at Prairie View, he was a proud member of the renowned Prairie View A&M Marching Storm band, where he played the saxophone, and was also an honored brother of Kappa Kappa Psi, the national band fraternity. Wilbert was also a 33rd degree Mason.

It was during these formative years that he met a beautiful young woman who would forever change his life Joycelyn K. Brown. On January 20, 1967, the two were joined in holy matrimony, beginning a love story that would span 58 extraordinary years. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, laughter, resilience, and unconditional love.

Wilbert was the proud father of four children: Reginald Matthews (who preceded him in death), Sheila Baker, Dwayne Matthews, and Kesha (Matthews) McNeil. He loved his children deeply and was always present with wisdom, patience, and protection. His legacy continued through his grandchildren- Shai Matthews, Ashley Wright, Shelyssa Johnson, Joshua Matthews, Trevin Matthews, Dylan Matthews, Kaci McNeil, and Elijah McNeil and 3 great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

Wilbert worked as a manager at Jack in the Box, but his entrepreneurial fire led him to open and operate his own business, Matthews Insurance Agency, where he served his community with integrity and care. He was a man of vision who believed in building something lasting not just for himself, but for those who would come after him.

In March of 1980, Wilbert was ordained as a Deacon under Rev. M.L. Price, a sacred responsibility he carried with quiet strength and unwavering faith. As the years passed, the call on his life grew louder, and on January 29, 1989, he was licensed to preach the Gospel.

In December of 1997, he was ordained and stepping fully into his divine assignment as Reverend Wilbert L. Matthews, under Dr. Gerald M. Dew pastorialship, who now resides in Chicago, IL.

It was during this time that he delivered his very first sermon, powerfully titled, "I Know a Man" John 1:6-11. That message became a cornerstone of his ministry, a testimony of his relationship with Christ and his desire for others to know Him too. His sermons didn't seek applause they sought to heal, to restore, and to remind us of God's unfailing love.

When Reverend Matthews prayed, it wasn't performance, it was presence. His prayers had a way of settling the room and stirring the soul. They wrapped around you like a blanket comforting, honest, and full of reverence. Whether in the pulpit, at the dinner table, or in quiet moments with others, he ministered with compassion and care, always leading with love.

His faith and service were honored on earth, as he received the Certificate of Honor from President Barack Obama and was wrapped in a Quilt of Valor in October 2017, a symbol of the nation's gratitude for his sacrifice. That same spirit of dedication was also recognized by his church family, when he was presented with the Lifetime of Service Award during the 83rd Men's Day at Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church on March 19, 2023.

He was known for his warm presence, his signature chuckle, his storytelling, and the way he made everyone feel seen and heard. Whether you met him once or knew him a lifetime, you remembered Wilbert L. Matthews.

On July 5, 2025, surrounded by love, Wilbert peacefully answered the Father's call. Heaven gained a soldier, a saint, and a son of the Most High. He is preceded in death by his parents Robert Lee and Betty Lou Matthews, and son Reginald Matthews. He leaves to honor his life and carry his legacy: his loving wife  and "Queen" Joycelyn K. Matthews; Brother; Isaac Matthews (Vera), Children Sheila Baker, Dwayne Matthews (Ruthie), and Kesha McNeil (Lonnie III); his treasured grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Sister-in-law; Ms. Daryl Brown, Brother-in-law; Mr. Gilbert Brown Jr., godsister- Debra Kelson Bennett, godchildren- William Norton, Andrew Kelson, Megan Haywood and Olivia Garrett; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, cherished friends, and spiritual family.