Obituary of Leon D. Matthews Jr.

On June 11, 2023 the world lost a great man. Leon Matthews Jr. 86, of Sidney Center passed away 17 days before his 87th birthday. Leon was one of the kindest, gentlest men that ever lived. Leon's bright, bubbly, straightforward attitude and love of life will be missed by many, especially the love of his life for the past 32 years, Noreen Perry, and their 4 children: Robert, Shawn (Emanuela), Anthony, and Joy (Ken), and their 6 grandchildren Damien, Leonardo, Stella, Vienna, Aurora and Adeline. He loved all his grandchildren, but Damien was the light of Leon's life and his Pa's heart. Leon was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on June 28, 1936 the only child of Leon Matthews, Sr. and Alice Georgianna St. Jean. Leon entered the United States Army at 17 and served his country during the Korean War. Leon was a truck driver for 26 years, but when he and Noreen got together, he bought a stone quarry and named it "Matthews and Sons"where he worked with Noreen and their family. His son Anthony spent most of time with his father riding in the truck and working side by side with him at the quarry. Leon is also survived by his children Leon III (Diane), Karen Emerson, Michael, John, Tammy, Heather and Shannon, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Leon brightened any situation with his intense sense of humor. His passing has left a huge hole in the world and especially Noreen's heart. Friends may call from 1:00-3:00pm on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney, NY 13838. Military honors will begin at 3:00pm at the funeral chapel. Share condolences and memories with the family online at www.landersfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.