Blaine Hayward Matthews

Blaine Matthews, age 90, of Rockford, peacefully went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in the early morning of Sunday, June 16th, 2024. He missed his 91st birthday by ten days. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church, and was a former member of Alcoa Way Baptist Church. In his later years, while attending Trinity Baptist Church, he learned to play the guitar, which became his passion, and he was also song leader. He was a beloved man who never met a stranger; his soul beamed unconditional love. When he wasn't strumming a tune on his guitar, or singing an old gospel hymn, you would find him bringing smiles and laughter to those around him. During the last fifteen years or so, he was known to hang out in the morning with friends made at Hardee's and McDonald's. He graduated from Sevier County High School, and also served in the Army. Preceded in death by his wife, Gail, son, Brandon, parents Arlie and Dee Matthews, brothers Jack, Wendell, and Carroll Matthews, sister Brenda Matthews. He is survived by his daughter Missy Ivens, who he entrusted with his care, and son-in-law Kenny Ivens, grandsons Cole and Mason Ivens; as well as his daughter Natasha Moneymaker, special granddaughter Lacey Matthews; grandson Jayden Moneymaker; brother Malcom Matthews (Carolyn), sisters-in-law Mary Matthews and Lois Matthews, several nieces and nephews. We want to thank all of the very special people at Fairpark Health and Rehab, who were like a second family to him, for taking such great care of Dad for the last three years. Another special thank you to Becky, Sandy, Heather, and the others from Caris Hospice for helping to take care of Dad and make him comfortable these last few weeks. Funeral service will be at 1:00 PM, Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Smith Trinity Chapel with Rev. Damon Gibson officiating. Interment will be at 3:00 PM, Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Grandview Pavilion. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.