Sir Stuart Matthews

Kt.O.N, C.Eng, F.R.Ae.S., A.F.A.I.A.A.,
Hon.DSc, Hon. PhD

May 5, 1936 – October 13, 2024

Sir Stuart Matthews passed away peacefully at his home in Port St. Lucie, Florida, on 13th October 2024 at the age of 88 following a peaceful decline. Born in Ealing Village, West London, Stuart was a cherished son of Bernard and Daisy, and older brother to Peter and Bernard. His lifelong passion for aviation began in childhood, inspired by wartime bombers flying over London. Stuart, along with his mother and brothers, was evacuated to North Wales during World War II, while his father was serving in the Royal Air Force.

Stuart later attended Whitgift Trinity School, excelling in academics and sports. At 17 years old, he earned an RAF Flying Scholarship and his Private Pilot's License, setting him on the path to an illustrious aviation career. He began his engineering journey at de Havilland, working on early jetliners such as the Comet. Later, Stuart contributed to the design of Concorde's iconic nose at the British Aircraft Corporation before joining British Caledonian Airways as General Manager of Corporate Planning. He married at 20 and became a father to three children.

In 1973, Stuart, now divorced, relocated to Virginia to establish the North American division of Fokker Aircraft as President and CEO. He flourished both professionally and personally, marrying Kaye and blending their respective families. Stuart's greatest career achievement was leading the sale of 150 Fokker aircraft to American Airlines. The transaction, which along with Stuart's significant contribution to the aviation industry, was recognized by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, who anointed Stuart a Knight of the Order of Orange Nassau in 1993.

After retiring from Fokker in 1994, Stuart became Chief Executive of the Flight Safety Foundation, where he championed global aviation safety until 2007. His impressive achievements, frequently lauded during his career with multiple awards, were further acknowledged with two honorary doctorates and a building at the University of Hertfordshire in England being named after him.

Stuart embraced life with passion. He loved skiing, fishing, boating, and hosting gatherings. Stuart adored his pets, never passing up the chance to bestow a friendly kiss to a dog or cat. He served as President of his local Lions Club, Commodore of the Mount Vernon Yacht Club, and remained active with the Rotary Club until the end.

After Kaye's passing in 2019, Stuart settled in Florida in 2022. His final year was spent peacefully on a lake surrounded by wildlife and the loving support of family members and his devoted caregivers.

Stuart's legacy of hard work, generosity, and love leaves an indelible mark on all who knew him. He is survived by his children, Anthony, Caroline, and Joanna; stepdaughters, Sophie and Liane; six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

A private service will be held in Florida in October, followed by a memorial in Alexandria, Virginia, in Spring 2025, and a ceremony at Ditchling Beacon, England, in Summer 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and Rotary International.

Rest in peace, Dad - our beloved Sir Stuart. You will forever remain in our hearts, a shining example of a life well lived. And yes, we'll "Sit up straight," "Take our elbows off the table," and, with abiding love, we will "Make the arrangements."

Your beloved Family