William Darrell Matlock

William Darrell Matlock, age 72, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at his residence in Jackson, TN.

He was born on June 3, 1952, in Ridgley, TN, the son of the late William Andrew and Gladys Lee Rogers Matlock.

Darrell lived a life filled with passion and commitment, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication. Darrell was a devoted professional in the automotive business for an impressive 40 years. His career began in Chicago, IL, where he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for every facet of the industry. Darrell eventually relocated to Jackson, TN, where he continued to thrive in a role he cherished. Throughout his career, he held various positions including wholesale, sales, sales manager, used car manager, used car buyer, and general manager, culminating in his retirement in 2021.

An education in Lake County, TN, shaped Darrell's early years, but it was his time serving in the United States Army from August 1972 until August 1974 that further defined his character. Stationed in Germany, he proudly represented his country and developed friendships that lasted throughout his life.

Darrell was a man of great personality who loved people, always seeking to make others laugh. His warmth and kindness were evident to everyone who encountered him. An avid sports fan, especially of baseball, he found joy in the thrill of the game, as well as in simple pleasures like fishing, maintaining his yard, and visiting the mountains. A lover of adventure, Darrell also enjoyed trips to Disney, where he embraced his inner child with wide-eyed enthusiasm.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Anita Fesmire Matlock, with whom he shared 24 wonderful years of marriage. His legacy continues through his daughter, Alex Matlock (Joey) of South Berwick, ME, and his precious granddaughter, Briley Matlock of South Berwick, ME. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Faye Spence (Thomas) of Jackson, TN, along with his nephews, Andy Spence (Melissa), Hayden Spence, and Harrison Spence, all of Jackson, TN, as well as his nieces, Tammy Jones (Jeff) and Allison Jones of Jackson, TN.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Gladys Matlock, Jo Ann Morgan, Ruth Garrard and Jewel Lytton and his brother, Jere Mac Matlock.

A visitation with family and friends will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, beginning at 12:00 p.m. and continuing until 2:00 p.m. at Arrington Funeral Directors.

A celebration of Darrell’s life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, in the Chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors with Austin Fesmire officiating. A committal service with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday March 24, 2025, at West Tennessee Veteran Cemetery at Parkers Crossroads.

Pallbearers for the service will be Hayden Spence, Harrison Spence, Andy Spence, Jeff Jones, Jim Giffin and Thomas Spence as an honorary pallbearer.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting memorial contributions be directed to Tunnels to Towers online at www.t2t.org or a charity of giver’s choice.

As we reflect on Darrell's life, we remember a man who enriched the lives of those around him with his humor, love, and strong sense of community. His enduring spirit will remain in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to know him.

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