John Bliss Matthews

John Bliss Matthews, 94, of Greene, NY, and formerly of Clarks Summit, passed away on Sunday afternoon surrounded by his family.  His loving wife is Bonnie Whitman Matthews.  They would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in December.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Frances M. and Walter L Matthews Jr.  For several years, he helped operate Maple Croft Gardens owned by his Aunt Eleanor Matthews.  John earned his associate degree in engineering from Penn State which launched his career as a mechanical draftsman and an inspector of mine subsidence sites.

John was a very down to earth man with high morals and values.  Family was of upmost importance to John.  As a family, gardening, raising dogs, camping, going for rides, being outdoors, watching musicals, and playing games were all activities that were enjoyed.  Genealogy was also of great interest to him.  John was a very caring and devoted man with a huge heart.

Also surviving are a daughter, Jennifer Griffin and husband Todd of Greene, NY; grandchildren, Kylie, Liam, Rebecka Preedom and husband Rich; a niece, Susan Vohnout and husband Bob of Boulder, CO; two grandnieces and their families; and a sister-in-law, Rita Matthews of Pensacola, FLA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Walter L. Matthews III; sister, Anne M. Matthews; and sister-in-law Mary Anne Matthews.

A memorial service will take place May 25th at 11 a.m. at the Church of Epiphany at 25 Church Hill Road, Dalton, PA by The Reverend John Davis.  Friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will be private at Forest Hills Cemetery, Dunmore, PA.

In lieu of flowers, plant a tree in his honor.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Church of Epiphany, PO Box 189 Clarks Summit, PA 18411 or American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.