Handy Emil Matthews Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Celebrating His Spirit Handy E Matthews, affectionately known as “Boogie,” to family and friends, was the first son born to Alice Patricia and Handy Lee Matthews on December 31, 1947. He departed this life on January 28, 2018 into the arms of The Lord. Handy dedicated his life to Christ at an early age and was baptized at New Prospect Baptist Church under the guidance of Rev. T. L. Lane. He attended Cummins Elementary School and Walnut Hills High School , graduating in 1966. Handy furthered his education at Kent State University, where he became one of the founders of the Kent State Chapter of PSI Gama and pledged in March of ‘69. He graduated from Kent State in 1970 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. After graduating from Kent State, he married Deborah (nee Parker) and their union was blessed with his first son, Brian Matthews. Handy was also blessed with a second son, David Lee Matthews, who preceded him in death in 1985. As a youth , Handy was a member of the Avondale Eagles Baseball Team ,which became the first Black team to win the All City Championship. Handy was an avid fisherman and avid sports fan. He was also a long-time member of the Walnut Hills YMCA. He enjoyed a multi-faceted career, starting with the State of Ohio in the Attorney General’s office and as an appraiser. He also worked with the entertainment industry as a concert promoter for many artist and groups such as Larry Graham, Midnight Starr, The Commodores and many others. Handy spent the last 20 years working as a substitute teacher with the Cincinnati Public Schools. Boogie also enjoyed gardening and earned a reputation for his culinary skills. He readily volunteered his services for family events and took great joy in making others happy with food. He was proceeded in death by his son David Matthews, along with his mother, Alice Patricia Davis-Matthews in 1988. He leaves to cherish his loving memory his father Handy L Matthews (Patricia) ; his son Brian (Susan) Matthews ; granddaughters, Chynna, Imani and Mila; his brothers, Michael L (Anna) Matthews and Rodney (Renee) D. Matthews. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends.

Handy Emil Matthews

December 31, 1947 - January 28, 2018