Biography: Ella Geraldine “Gerry” Shaw Matthews, age 84, of Little Rock, died Sunday, March 16, 2008. Gerry was born in Conway, Arkansas, the daughter of the late James Harvey and Ara Agnes Webb Shaw. After graduation from high school in Norman, Arkansas, she attended Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas and then transferred to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in home economics and was honored as a Razorback Beauty. After college she married Kay L. Matthews in 1950. They made their home in Little Rock where Gerry was active in her church and was a Home Economist with the Pulaski County Extension Service. She was a member of the Future Homemakers of America, past member of the now inactive Apple Blossom Garden Club, past board member of The Mountain View Folk Center, and served as a judge at several state flower shows. She worked closely with the National Alliance of the Mentally Ill. Her membership at the First United Methodist Church included the Friendly Couples Sunday School Class, later the Agape-Credo Sunday school class and the church choir. She loved gardening, reading and playing the piano. She is survived by her husband Kay L. Matthews of Little Rock, 2 sons; Robert Matthews of Santa Monica, California, John Matthews of Little Rock, 1 daughter Susan Matthews of Little Rock, 2 sisters; Ann S. Chudy and husband Dr. Amail of North Little Rock, Joyce King of Washington, D.C. and 1 brother; James H. Shaw of Maracaibo, Venezuela. There will be a visitation Tuesday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home, followed by a memorial service Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Little Rock, officiated by Reverend Dr. Michael Mattox. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 723 Center Street, Little Rock 72201.
May you feel the peace that passes all understanding. With love,