Russell William Matthews Jr.

Russell William Matthews, Jr., of Warner Robins, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, September 26, 2026. A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, October 2, at 1:00 PM at New Elim Baptist Church with Pastor, Johnny Baggett officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to service time.

Mr. Matthews was born on March 15, 1941, in Macon, Georgia, to the late Mr. Russell William Matthews, Sr. and Mrs. Laura Lee Haskins Goodrich. Throughout his life, he was guided by a strong sense of duty, faith, and service to others.

Mr. Matthews proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. During his military service, he was stationed at the prestigious Marine Barracks in Washington, D.C., where he faithfully carried out his responsibilities and represented his country with honor and dedication.

His faith was an important part of his life, and he faithfully served his church and community. Mr. Matthews currently served as a deacon at Cathedral of Christ Baptist Church and had previously served as a deacon at New Elim Baptist Church. Through his years of service, he demonstrated a genuine commitment to his faith and to helping others.

Mr. Matthews also dedicated much of his professional life to serving and protecting the communities in which he lived. His career in law enforcement included service with the Macon Police Department, Chief Investigator for the Forsyth County Sheriff's Department, the Tri-County Sheriff's Department, serving the communities of Lumpkin, Dawson, and White Counties, and the Byron Police Department. In each position, he worked diligently to serve others and uphold the responsibilities entrusted to him. Following his law enforcement career, Mr. Matthews retired from Sovee Pharmaceutical.

Outside of his professional and church commitments, Mr. Matthews enjoyed spending time outdoors. He especially loved hunting and fishing, appreciating the peace and fellowship that came with time spent outdoors. He was also a longtime gun enthusiast and enjoyed his interest in firearms.

Mr. Matthews will be remembered for a life characterized by service to his country, his community, his church, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout the years. His legacy of faith, dedication, and commitment to others will remain cherished by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Matthews was preceded in death by his son, Russell “Russ” William Matthews, III; sister, Laura Gail Arrington; and sister-in-law, Sheila Matthews.

Left to cherish Mr. Matthews memory are his adoring and loving wife of 68 years, Rosemary Morrow Matthews; grandson, Quintin Matthews; two great-grandchildren; brothers, David Matthews (Pam), Duncan Matthews, Terry Collins (Mary); brother-in-law, Vic Morrow (Vickie); furbabies, Booger Bear and Cricket; and several extended family members and friends.

Friends may sign the online registry at www.fairhavenmacon.com.

FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services has the honor of being entrusted with arrangements.