In Loving Memory of Joan D. Matthews

Joan D. Matthews, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully in her home in Renton, Washington on April 24, 2025, at the age of 85. She was surrounded by her children, her grandchildren, and her great friend and pastor.

Born in Cotton plant, Arkansas, to Emmitt and Idear Taylor, Joan lived a life full of purpose, love, and grace. She was affectionately known as "Baby Sister," a nickname lovingly given to her by her mother, and she carried that warmth with her throughout her life.

Joan’s spirit, sense of humor, and deep empathy will be missed beyond words. She is survived by her three children, Tracy, Nanette, and Charles; her sisters Janis Jones, Melvia Taylor (Frank), and Mattie Johnson; her grandchildren Amber, Jasmine, Blake, and Julian; and great-grandchildren Lorenzo and Zayden. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom she cherished dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Emmitt and Idear Taylor, and her brother, Frank Taylor.

A funeral service to celebrate Joan’s beautiful life will be held on Saturday, May 24th at 11:00 AM at Martin Luther King Memorial Baptist Church, 4519 NE 10th St, Renton, WA 98059..

Her legacy of love, laughter, and generosity lives on in the many lives she touched.