Carol (Richardson) Matthews

Carol R. Matthews, age 84, of Sunset Beach, NC passed away on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, in the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, Brunswick House following a time of declining health.

Carol was born on April 6, 1941, and was a daughter of the late Charles and Winifred Bowman Richardson. Carol’s father, Charles was a local pastor, and his dedicated wife followed God from the beginning. Carol’s life was dedicated to God, her family, and doing good things for others.

She met her soulmate and future husband, Wayne in 1957 while in high school and were married in 1961. Carol converted Wayne to Christianity almost immediately and between them served the Lord throughout her life.

After their marriage in 1961, Carol worked for the US State Department helping to fund Wayne’s college education, majoring in finance, which supported them the rest of their lives. They lived in Bowie, Maryland for thirty years, until Wayne’s job caused them to move to Roanoke, VA for six years. From there they moved to Sunset Beach, NC where they lived for over 25 years, until Carol’s death.

Carol was very active in Seaside United Methodist Church, being in the choir, playing hand bells, taking care of the kitchen duties, all while helping Wayne with the finances of the church along with several other responsibilities within Seaside United Methodist Women’s group, such as prayer shawls.

Carol is survived by her loving husband, Wayne; their three boys, Ken and wife Monica, Keith, and Kraig and wife Kate; three grandchildren, Jared, Jami, & Pheonix; and two great granddaughters, Chloe and Rosie.

A Celebration of Life service will be held in Seaside UMC, on Friday November 21, 2025, at 2 PM with Pastors Matt Farabow and Stefanie Riley officiating.

The family requests with gratitude that donations be made in her name to the Seaside UMC, “Food Pantry”, 1300 Seaside Road, Sunset Beach, NC 29468, or https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z482/campaign/C-1271X .

Online condolences and messages to the family are encouraged and may be shared at www.fulwoodfuneralservice.com

Michael J. Fulwood Funeral & Cremation Service.