Willis T. Matthews

Willis Troy Matthews, age 64, transitioned to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, in Hospice Care, Smyrna, Delaware. He was born on July 4, 1961, to Willis James Matthews and the late Thomasine Turner Matthews.
Troy received his early childhood Christian education, attending Sunday school at New Zion United Methodist Church in Laurel, Delaware. He attended school in the Laurel School District.
He loved working with horses and was fascinated by them. He worked the Harness Racing Circuit, from Harrington Raceway, Dover Downs, Ocean Downs, Rosecroft Raceway, Yonkers Raceway, and Meadowlands Racetrack. He would daily help train, exercise, and care for the horses.
It was during this time that many of his friends gave him the nicknames; "Big Troy", "The Whiz" and "Gee Whiz".
Troy was enthusiastic and passionate about his food. Always willing to try something savory, new, and tasty! He was the epitome of a real "Foodie".
He loved his family and was always excited about communicating with them during Family celebrations. His birthday was on the 4th of July, and he did not let you forget it. He was so excited about celebrating his Birthday because it happened on a major holiday when everybody was celebrating.
He joyfully accepted Jesus Christ in his heart as his Lord and Savior in the year 2023! After being Born-Again, Troy was serious about being pleasing to God.
Troy was preceded in death by his mother, Thomasine Turner Matthews, and his sister, Alicia Matthews Williams.
He leaves loving memories with his father, Willis James Matthews, New Castle, Delaware; siblings; Elder Martina Dupont, Seaford, Delaware; Elder Serena Bennett (Lawrence), Waxahachie, Texas; Terrance Felipa, Mardela Springs, Maryland; Donna Matthews, Seaford, Delaware; Yolanda Bleen, Wilmington, Delaware