A HEART OF GOLD: Kimberly Matthews remembered
BY BRUCE BRANUM
The Greenville Standard
Kimberly Matthews will forever be remembered by her friends, family, and furry friends for having a heart of gold.
Born, Nov. 27, 1962, in Homewood, she made an indelible mark on every person she met with her compassion, kindness, and love for both animals and humanity.
She attended Shades Valley High School, then Marion Military Institute, and finally the University of South Florida before moving to Georgiana to eventually marry Thomas Matthews in 1999.
Thomas related their first time meeting and said it was almost like an out of body experience because they were so alike on many different levels.
He noted she was a social butterfly and liked to be around people. She also had a great love for animals, reading, and Alabama football.
One of their favorite things to do together was listening to and singing together to the Rolling Stones album Bridges to Babylon. Their favorite song was Saint of Me.
He added, “I am humbled for having known her. I am humbled by the people she has affected.”
She worked for many years at the Shell Depot in Greenville before accepting a position as hostess with Wintzell’s Oyster House.
Kimberly started as a volunteer with the Butler County Humane Society (BCHS) in 2012 and would eventually become the vice-president.
Her passion for animal care would lead her to help with the development of the Butler County Junior Humane Society (BCJHS).
Thomas said she was totally involved with the BCJHS and never missed an event or meetings and worked tirelessly to raise money.
Kandys Killough, BCHS president, said she met Kimberly in 1986 when she moved to Greenville. She added, “Kimberly was one of the most generous and loving people I’ve ever known. There was always a smile, kiss and hug. Those who embraced her love were blessed.”
Cory Rice, a BCHS volunteer, added, “She was one of the sweetest women I have met! She always had a smile on her face and was ready to help any animal!! She is truly going to be missed.”
Rachel Branum, a close friend of Kimberly, also said, “She was the sweetest person I have ever met.”
Linda Morton, also a close friend of Kimberly said, “Her passion was for the animals. She was such a loving person with the loving gift of two armed hugs.”
Kimberly’s Funeral service will be held from St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Saturday, May 18, at 3 p.m. The family will begin accepting visitors at 2 p.m. A Celebration of Life Service will be held from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Wintzell’s Oyster House.
In lieu of flowers, Kimberly would ask that all gifts of remembrance be made to the Butler County Humane Society.
