Robert S. Matthews

Robert S. "Bob" Matthews, 87, of Tacoma, WA, passed away Monday May 2, 2022 at the Lodge at Mallard Landing in Gig Harbor, WA.
Bob was a student at Murry State University in the school of music. Before he could complete his schooling, he was drafted into the army where he served 2 years in the army band. Bob was a professional musician best known for playing bass with Sergio Mendes &Brasil '66. He played in numerous bands throughout his career including Lou Rawls, Sammy Davis Jr., Rodney Dangerfield, The Four Aces, and Loretta Lynn to name a few. He also performed on many cruises with The Harry James Band. He traveled overseas to tour with many big bands.
Bob was of Catholic faith. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.
Bob was born in St. Louis, Missouri on April 13, 1935 to Walter Harlon and Sevilla Beatrice (Durbin) Matthews.
Bob married his first wife Norma and she preceded him in death in April of 1989. He then married his second wife, Mary Jo, and she has also preceded him in death in July 2019.
Bob is survived by his sister, Marilyn Ruppel and Tom DeChristina of Herrin; nieces and nephews; Jeff Matthews, Kevin Matthews, Tanis Westbrook, Steve & Debbie Ruppel, Scott & Teanna Ruppel, Lori Hudspeth, and Holly Hudspeth; and great-nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by parents; both wives; brother, Harlon W. Matthews; sister and brother-in-law, Sandra "Honey" & Fred McDonald; brother-in-law, Bill Ruppel; niece, Christy Ruppel Grob; and nephew-in-law, Rick Westbrook.
Graveside services will be held 1:30 p.m. Friday, May 13, 2022 at San Carlo Cemetery in Herrin, Illinois with Fr. Pat Reynolds officiating. Family and friends may gather at the cemetery prior to the service. Interment with military graveside rites will be conducted by the Herrin American Legion Post # 645, Carterville American Legion Post # 347 and the Baker-Ladd V. F. W. Post # 1567.