Cris Kay Matthews passed away in his sleep early in the morning of Sept. 30, 2019 at the age of 56. This is a tragic loss to his family and friends. Everyone who knew him will remember his playful tone and easy laugh that quickly gave way to a helping, giving nature. He never married and lived a quiet life of working at the family business. Being the oldest of eight children, born July 13, 1963, he was viewed as a mentor by all of his brothers and sisters. Spending time with them was his favorite thing to do, especially if it meant going camping or fishing. He was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints serving a mission in Bogota, Colombia. He graduated from ASU with a business degree. Cris is survived by his parents, Gary & Linda Matthews, and siblings Shelley(Robert) Fletcher, Janna Gerlak, Ellen(Rick) Jones, Neil Matthews, Blaine(Tiffany) Matthews, Nathan(Jenny) Matthews, and Daniel Matthews and 24 nieces and nephews. There will be a viewing for Cris at Bunkers Family Funeral Homes at 33 N. Centennial Way, Wednesday Oct. 9 from 6 – 8 pm. Services will be held at the Lynn Rae Ward Building, 1266 S. 32nd. St, at 10 am on Oct. 10, with more viewing at 9am.
We lost a dear friend Cris early this week! He was a great friend, funny, caring, helpful, and always willing to help others. I’ve known Chris since 1991. He’s always been a faithful steady friend. Miss you Cris! Prayers for all his family!
I pray y’all are feeling at peace and strength as you have to go through this experience of losing a family member.
He’s a good guy.
I will always be grateful for his generous heart and love for service.
*****Matthews Family: I am so sorry for your loss. I met Cris and Shelley Matthews (and Robert Fletcher) in the E.G Mid-Singles Ward. They were very Christlike to me and to others. Cris will be missed. My Husband and I have to work the day of the funeral so we will try to make it for the Viewing. I will be praying for you all. Take care, Tiffany Read (was Tiffany Hathcock-Viers) ??
Cris passed the morning of my birthday. I was fishing in northern AZ, he loved that area of our state. I had such a wonderful time with my wife there. I know he would enjoyed being out there, we went together on campouts and other outdoor activities. May your family feel the Lords peace and comfort at this time. Love you.
I was saddened to hear about Cris. Cris Matthews is a good man and a good friend. He knew the Truth, had a testimony of it, lived it, sacrificed for it and was in the service of it. My association with Cris will always be remembered. We were Home Teaching companions one time long ago and while driving to an appointment we got pulled over by the cops in a case of mistaken identity. As the officer approached, I had my hands on the wheel and looking over Cris had his on the dashboard. Hilarity soon followed. He was always the best prepared for Ward and private outings and bonfires, as he cared about others. Cris Matthews will definitely be missed. My sincerest condolences to his family, his loved ones and his friends.
Cris was a faithful friend. I appreciated the items he created from wood and gifted to me and to others just because he wanted to use his talent to be generous. I’ll miss his homemade tamales and free notepads from work. Group restaurant and movie nights will be so different without him. He put up with plenty of chick flicks watched as a group, even though he infamously snored exactly at a quiet moment in one of those films. That was a good laugh and he just took it in stride. You’ll be missed, Cris Matthews!
I was shocked and very saddened to hear of Cris’ passing. He was a wonderful friend and will be greatly missed. Cris was one of my faithful home teachers when I was in the Elliot Groves Ward. I always knew that I could count on him. I have many fun memories of group camp outs, dinners, bonfires, dances and activities. I had the privilege of riding in his vehicle on multiple occasions. We would talk for many hours to and from campouts and activities. Lots of fun conversations, laughter, and the solving of world problems. At one camp out he convinced me that spam was really good. He made me his spam and egg breakfast specialty and it was amazing. Even better than the pop tarts I was planning to eat.
Cris was one of the first of my friends to meet my fiancé (now husband). He was genuinely happy for me and I will always remember and appreciate his approval.
Many have been blessed by their association with Cris. He will be missed.
Cris was one of my best friends for over 25 years. He was such a good example of service and kindness to all. Cris was a great home teacher who would bring strawberry cupcakes or homemade tamales. We will miss him when we go to dinner and a movie. My chocolate dipping party will have a big hole as we miss him.
Cris was cheerful and always willing to give a helping hand. He cared about people. He lived the gospel and was a good man. I will miss him at our dinners and movies.
My dear Linda & Gary and kiddos. My heart is breaking as I just heard the news of dear Cris. I would have been to see you had I known.
I love you all so much!
Cris was always so happy and sweet in his quiet way. Always made me feel so welcome and I knew he would do anything for me any time. What a blessing to have him for your son!
I’m so grateful for the plan!
Please know my love and prayers are with you.
You are an amazing family!
What a great man & friend. My deepest condolences & continued prayers for your family.
What a great man & friend. My deepest condolences & continued prayers for your family. He loves his family & I know he is watching over you. Wonderful memories of Cris. Great man! He is missed & loved by many.