Bay Area native Barry Matthews, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and master builder, passed away peacefully at age 77. Born and raised in Martinez, CA, Barry was an all-star athlete at Alhambra High School. Earning a B.A. in Physical Education from Cal State Hayward, he worked in retail and hardware before being introduced to construction. He embraced carpentry as his lifelong passion, secured his contractor's license, and built a successful career as a business owner and superintendent - yet always proudly called himself "a carpenter."
On November 22, 1970, Barry married his high school sweetheart, Linda Foppoli, beginning a cherished 47-year partnership filled with hard work and shared dreams. Together they built a home and raised their children, Sara and C.J., in Livermore, CA. With family and friends, Barry built the Matthews' beloved cabin in Big Trees, a lasting place of joy, nature, and memories. He also constructed the homes where his children and grandchildren would live.
Barry was predeceased by his beloved wife, Linda, in 2017; his firstborn son, Barrett; his first grandson, Matthew Michelena; parents, Ray and Dorothy Matthews; and sisters, Leslie Sicre and Audrey Rowe. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sara and Joe Michelena (Turlock); his son and daughter-in-law, C.J. and Taylor Matthews (Livermore); and his six adored grandchildren, Emily, Elizabeth, Michael, Audrey, Natalie, and Bryson, who brought renewed purpose and light to his life after Linda's death.
Barry remained humble, hardworking, generous, and deeply grateful throughout his life. He found joy in boating, rooting for the SF Giants and 49ers, and cherished his loyal dogs, Buck and Buddy. His legacy of faith and integrity endures in the family and homes he built, and the kindness and laughter he shared with all who knew him. Barry's life will be celebrated on February 21, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Turlock, CA, with Rosary services at 11:30 a.m., funeral mass at 12pm, followed by on-site reception.
On November 22, 1970, Barry married his high school sweetheart, Linda Foppoli, beginning a cherished 47-year partnership filled with hard work and shared dreams. Together they built a home and raised their children, Sara and C.J., in Livermore, CA. With family and friends, Barry built the Matthews' beloved cabin in Big Trees, a lasting place of joy, nature, and memories. He also constructed the homes where his children and grandchildren would live.
Barry was predeceased by his beloved wife, Linda, in 2017; his firstborn son, Barrett; his first grandson, Matthew Michelena; parents, Ray and Dorothy Matthews; and sisters, Leslie Sicre and Audrey Rowe. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sara and Joe Michelena (Turlock); his son and daughter-in-law, C.J. and Taylor Matthews (Livermore); and his six adored grandchildren, Emily, Elizabeth, Michael, Audrey, Natalie, and Bryson, who brought renewed purpose and light to his life after Linda's death.
Barry remained humble, hardworking, generous, and deeply grateful throughout his life. He found joy in boating, rooting for the SF Giants and 49ers, and cherished his loyal dogs, Buck and Buddy. His legacy of faith and integrity endures in the family and homes he built, and the kindness and laughter he shared with all who knew him. Barry's life will be celebrated on February 21, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Turlock, CA, with Rosary services at 11:30 a.m., funeral mass at 12pm, followed by on-site reception.
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