Lower Sackville, NS
September 17, 1946 - February 09, 2025
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of William Richard Matthews. Bill, to those who knew and loved him, left us on Sunday, February 9th at the age of 78 after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.
He was pre-deceased by his wife Gwyneth (Ferguson) and his parents, Al and Betty Matthews.
He is fondly remembered with deep love and admiration by his brothers Malcolm (Sandra) and Jim (Judy), and sister Janet (Kelly).
Bill’s greatest joy in life was his family, especially his nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Bill was born in Calgary, but his heart truly found a home in Nova Scotia, where he spent most of his life. He began his academic journey at St. Peter’s School in Dartmouth and later attended Saint Mary’s University in Halifax where he pursued his studies and met the love of his life, Gwyn.
While at university, Bill proudly served in the Naval Reserve, rising to the rank of Sub-Lieutenant. After graduating, Bill found his calling as a high school math teacher, dedicating three and a half decades to students at QEH in Halifax. As the world around him evolved, Bill embraced change, expanding his expertise to include developing and teaching computer courses. He also took on the role of school Registrar, always with a passion for supporting both student and staff. Bill enjoyed exploring through travel. His time with the Canadian Navy opened his eyes to the world, and once he married Gwyn, they enjoyed opportunities to explore new places together.
Their adventures took them to England, Newfoundland, and Florida, where they created wonderful memories. More recently he enjoyed traveling with his brother Malcolm and sister-in-law Sandra. At home, Bill and Gwyn opened their hearts and their home to countless feline friends over the years - each one becoming a beloved member of the family, living their best lives, lounging in the custom cat trees Bill crafted just for them.
Bill’s interests were as varied as they were fulfilling. He spent many years in a weekly bowling league, an interest he shared with his mom. A lifelong reader with a love for all kinds of music, Bill’s curiosity never waned. In his retirement, taking after his dad, Bill discovered a true passion for wood working, crafting beautiful pieces that became treasured gifts for many. Many of Bill’s happiest memories were made at the family cottage on Porter’s Lake. He especially loved the time he spent working alongside his best friend, his father, on endless construction projects – hard work made lighter by laughter.
In more recent years, Bill enjoyed spending holidays and special occasions at the home of his niece Christina and her husband Al, swapping stories over a rum and coke and Al’s good cooking.
The family would like to extend thanks to the medical teams at the Infirmary and Victoria General sites of the QEII Health Sciences Centre for their care and kindness. A special thank you as well to Bill’s wonderful neighbours, whose generosity and unwavering support provided comfort to Bill and the family throughout Bill’s journey.
Donations in Bill’s memory could be made to Dalhousie Cancer Research Institute or the Nova Scotia SPCA.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday April 19th, 2pm at Inn On The Lake, Fall River.
