Barbara Nell Simmons Matthew

Barbara Nell Simmons Matthews, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2026. Born on April 15, 1944, in Claxton, Georgia, to Irvin John Simmons and Ruth Elizabeth Medlin, Barbara learned the value of hard work, dedication, and perseverance at an early age while working on the family farm.

On September 3, 1965, Barbara married her eternal companion, William "Bill" Matthews. Together, they built a life centered on faith and devotion to family, raising four children: Tricia, John, Eileen, and Dixie. Throughout her children’s upbringing, Barbara led by example, instilling in them the values of hard work and quiet service to others. During the early years of their marriage, Bill’s service in the United States Air Force took their young family on unforgettable overseas adventures, creating cherished memories and lifelong bonds.

Barbara was the consummate homemaker who truly cherished her role as a wife and mother. She spent her entire life caring for others, nurturing her family, and keeping a beautiful garden wherever she lived. A talented cook, Barbara never let anyone leave her house with an empty stomach. Her signature phrase to anyone sitting at her table remains a beloved memory: “If you leave here hungry, it’s your own fault!” Her family also fondly cherishes memories of making Christmas plates piled high with homemade cookies and candies, which were delivered with love to neighbors and friends each year.

Above all, Barbara loved the gospel of Jesus Christ and strove daily to live as His faithful disciple. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering spirit touched every life she encountered.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Irvin John Simmons and Ruth Medlin; her brother and sisters; and her precious great-grandson, William Scott Jones.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Bill; her children, Tricia, John, Eileen, and Dixie, alongside their spouses; her 12 cherished grandchildren; and 11 precious great-grandchildren.

A viewing will be held Monday, August 17, 2026, from 10:00am - 11:00am followed by funeral services at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 502 E. Hwy. 30 Gonzales, LA 70737. Burial will be at Louisiana National Cemetery in Zachary, LA at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Liam Foundation for the fight against Mitochondrial Disease in honor of her great-granddaughter Colbi Bonaventure at https://liamfoundation.com/ .