Matthew "Sonny" Lindsey

Matthew Lindsey, affectionately known as "Sonny," entered into eternal rest at the age of 91, on August 15, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Sonny was born on May 18, 1934, to the late Lou Jane and Leroy Lindsey in Quitman, Mississippi. In his early twenties, he was married to the late Hattie Louise Lindsey, and two children, Marion and Doris, were born from their union.

In the 1960s, Sonny relocated to New Orleans and made this city his home, where he built a life filled with love, family, and community. In the 1970s, He was united in marriage to his beloved wife, the late Willie Jewel Burkett, whom he shared more than 37 years of marriage. Together they built a family grounded in faith, love, and devotion. Sonny was a loving father, affectionate grandfather, and a wonderful great-grandfather whose presence brought joy and comfort to all generations of his family.

Most importantly, Sonny was a man of strong faith and deep conviction for God. His love for God was the foundation of his strength, hope, and compassion. He imparted love for God to his children and the many generations of children that followed. For many years, Sonny was an active member of New Generation Fellowship Church, where he served as a deacon.

After 40 years of serving as a trackman, Sonny retired from the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad. He formed many great relationships at the railroad that has lasted him a lifetime.

Sonny will always be remembered for his very friendly, outgoing personality and his natural ability to embrace everyone regardless of differences. Known as a man full of compassion, he selflessly helped and cared for many throughout his life. He was an advocate for his grandchildren acquiring higher education and, in many instances, he was instrumental in facilitating such opportunities.

Sonny will always be cherished and recounted for his love of: God, family (especially all the grandchildren), fishing, gardening, carpentry, and sitting on the porch or riding through the neighborhood fellowshipping with everyone. The relationships he nurtured and maintained with his extended family were very important to him, and those connection were maintained through family reunions, phone calls, and in-person visits.

Sonny leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and strength. His entire life was a testament to hard work, faith, and devotion to his family. He guided with patience, inspired with kindness, and provided a foundation of values that will continue to live on through his children, grandchildren, and generations to come. Sonny's stories, laughter, and gentle spirit will forever remain a part of our hearts.

Sonny is survived by his children: Marion (Bobby), Yolanda (Jeffery), Chanel, Merell (Donna), Kerry (Jesse Jr.), David, Mitzi (Vincent), Purtula (Charles), Kermit (Rhonda), and Chiquita (Terrence). He is also survived by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beautiful wife Willie Jewel Burkett Lindsey, who was the love of his life. He was also preceded in death by Doris (daughter), Frank (son), Des'Juan (great-grandson), Atlas Creed (great-grandson), Sam (brother), Jake (brother), and Edwin (brother), and Christina (daughter-in-law).

Sonny had people that were close and dear to him, including Sandy Mac, Big Robert, Manual, Baker and so many others from his professional career, community, extended family, neighbors, church, and people along the way.

Relatives and friends of the family are all invited to attend his Celebration of Life Service on Thursday, August 28, 2025, 10:00AM, at New Generation Fellowship, 1000 Clay St., Kenner, LA. Visitation will be held from 9:00AM until the hour of service. Interment Providence Memorial Park, Metairie, LA.