Obituary of Stanley Clifford Matthews

MATTHEWS, Stanley Clifford, age 91, of Halifax.

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father, who left us on November 25, 2024 in Purcell’s Cove with his loving family by his side.

Born in Port-aux-Basque, Newfoundland on March 21, 1933, Dad was the son of the late Albert and Mae Matthews. He moved to Halifax shortly after Newfoundland joined Confederation in March of 1949. Dad was not educated through the school system; he was educated through the school of life. He started working at a very young age to help out his mom after his dad was tragically killed in an accident.

When he arrived in Hallifax, Dad worked for National Sea Products and Burns Fisheries where he met the love of his life, Shirley.  He became very proficient in fish cutting and was successful in local competitions. Dad was a hard working, dedicated and trustworthy employee. In 1964, he became the Caretaker and Bartender at the Saraguay Club on Purcell’s Cove Road. He worked there for 34 years. Mom and Dad also worked as a team catering private parties. One of Dad’s proudest moments was serving the Queen Mother at Government House in 1979.

In the late 50’s, Mom and Dad moved to Purcell’s Cove where they spent their entire life raising their family and enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Northwest Arm, Point Pleasant Park, and McNabs Island. Dad had several boats over the years and enjoyed many hours fishing, filleting the fish on his dock, and sharing his catch with friends and neighbours.  Dad was a very generous man; he would give you the shirt off his back if he knew you needed it. He was always there to lend a helping hand. Dad was one of the founding members of The Purcell’s Cove Social Club and developed many lifelong friendships through his time there.  Dad loved to tell stories about his life to anyone who would listen. We will treasure these stories forever. Dad’s last words were, “I had a good life.” Dad, may you rest in peace, you will be forever loved and missed.

Dad is survived by his children, Donna Todd, Linda Matthews, Sharron (Mark) Martell, and Tony (Joyce) Matthews, all of Halifax; daughter-in-law, Val (Jody) Matthews; grandchildren, Ashley, Laura, Josh, Sarah, Mitchell, Chelsea, and Makayla; many great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A special mention to Tracy, Keri, and Troy. Dad is predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Shirley; son, Michael; daughter Debra Manning. Dad was the last remaining member of his family.

We would like to thank the Doctors and the Nursing Staff at the QEII Infirmary for their wonderful care over the last month. We would also like to thank the Doctors and staff at the Spryfield Medical Clinic for their many years of care. A special thank you to Nurse Practitioner Vicki Guy. Cremation has taken place in the care of J. Albert Walker Funeral Home, 149 Herring Cove Road, Halifax.

A celebration of life will be held at the Purcell’s Cove Social Club located at 16 Shipside Lane, Purcell’s Cove on Friday November 29, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.