Linford R. Matthews Sr.'s Obituary
Linford R. Matthews Sr., affectionately known as “Peany,” 70, of Annapolis, formerly of Shadyside Maryland, peacefully transitioned on June 8, 2026.
Born on March 11, 1956, he was the beloved son of the late Mildred and Ellis Matthews. He attended Anne Arundel County Public Schools and dedicated over 40 years of service as a skilled marine painter with Hartge Yacht Yard, Inc., where he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout his career.
On August 4, 2003, Peany was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Cynthia A. Brown. Their union was built on love, devotion, and companionship. He cherished his wife deeply and treasured every moment spent with her and their family.
Peany found joy in life’s simple pleasures. In his leisure time, he enjoyed spending days at the race car track, visiting the casino, taking long rides, watching wrestling, listening to live gospel music, and cheering on the Washington Commanders. Above all, he found his greatest joy in being surrounded by family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Gloria (Benjamin) Dennis, Frieda (Woodrow) Nick, and Joan (Emmett) White; and his brothers, Ellis and Delmar Matthews.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Cynthia Matthews; his sons, Linford R. Matthews Jr. and Rico J. Matthews Sr.; his daughters, Jessica (Dontai) Turner and Erica (Craig) Jones; and his goddaughter, Nahema (Justin) Witt.He was a proud and loving grandfather to fifteen cherished grandchildren: Tara, Dasha, Ti’ahni, Lauren, Leighn, Capri, Jazmyne, Rico Jr., Janez, Endia, Damarien, Paolo, Dontai Jr., Monet, and Craig Jr. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Chase and Auria.
Peany shared a special bond with his two godsons, Jalen Carter and Cashmir Witt. He also maintained a close and loving relationship with his sisters, Brenda (Theodore) Owens and Rosetta (James) Carter, speaking with them daily and cherishing their conversations and laughter.
In addition, he leaves to cherish his memory his brother, Pernell (Barbara) Matthews; his father-in-law, William (Ruth) Brown; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Milton (Mary) Tongue, Sarah (Lawrence) Moulden, Leslie Brown, Clayton Brown, and Lisa (Terry) Heinecke; his devoted nephews, Weaver, Ted, Jay, and Lovette “Biney”; his devoted friend, Marshall Hall; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Peany’s legacy of love, dedication, kindness, and devotion to family will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His warm spirit, generous heart, and unwavering love for those closest to him will be cherished always.
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