Final Salute

St. Augustine – Marc Thomas Matthews, who brought warmth and humor to every room he entered, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025 in St. Augustine, Florida.

Born on August 19, 1941, in Michigan, Marc grew up as the second of eight children of James and Bernadine Matthews. At just 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a Seabee on Midway Island, where he began learning construction-skills that would shape his future both professionally and personally.

After his military service, Marc studied graphic arts at Ferris State College and began his career as a professional photographer for General Motors in Saginaw, Michigan. In 1972, he relocated to Leesburg, Florida, where he returned to the construction field-first in sales with Clell Coleman, then as a general contractor and entrepreneur. He co-founded Great Age Construction, and later formed Matthews Properties and Construction and Matthews Hanna Construction. He retired in 2007.

Marc married Jeanne Lorraine Pokorny in 1965, and together they built a full and loving life for 60 years. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Marc had a curious mind and an adventurous spirit. He was a licensed pilot, avid boater, scuba diver, and enthusiastic genealogist who traced his family’s roots in North America back to 1644. He was also a storyteller, a man of deep faith, and someone who made fast friends wherever he went. His honesty, sense of humor, and easygoing nature made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanne; his son, Marc Thomas (Dusty) Matthews; his grandchildren, Griffin Thomas (Kayleah) Matthews and Graham Edward Matthews; and his great-granddaughter, Gwendolin Rose Matthews. He is also remembered with love by his siblings and their families: James Matthews, Mary Becker, Janet Silva, George

Matthews, Marcia Rooney, and Michelle Martin. He was preceded in death by his brother, John Matthews.

Marc lived with joy, generosity, and strong values rooted in his Catholic faith. He will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Haven Hospice are appreciated. In keeping with his wishes, no formal service will be held. His ashes will be scattered privately by his family and friends.
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