Donna J. Matthers

In Loving Memory of Donna J. Matthers ("Beanie")

Donna J. Matthers, affectionately known as “Beanie” and “Aunt Beanie” to her cherished family and countless friends, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, after a courageous battle with illness. Born in Middletown, Ohio, to the late Frank and Marcella Matthers, Beanie brought joy, laughter, and warmth to every room she entered.

Beanie was the heartbeat of every gathering, radiant, spirited, and endlessly social. She never met a stranger, and if you did, chances are Beanie already knew them. Her uncanny ability to connect people made her the unofficial news channel of the community, always in the know and always ready to share a story, a laugh, or a word of wisdom.

Though she did not have children of her own, Beanie’s nurturing spirit touched the lives of many. She lovingly raised a host of nieces, nephews, and friends, and held custody of her beloved nieces LaRica and LaVel, whom she cared for with unwavering devotion. Her role as a caretaker extended to her late sister Dolores, whom she supported with grace and compassion.

Beanie led an adventurous life while being a guiding light to most of those who came in contact with her. She spent the majority of her life caring for others, always putting their needs before her own. Her generosity was boundless, and her love was unconditional. While Beanie cared for many, everyone also knew that you did not want to cross her at all. She was fiercely protective of those she loved and never hesitated to speak her mind when it mattered most.

A proud member of Second Baptist Church, Beanie’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She found joy in the simple pleasures such as crocheting, bingo nights, casino trips, scratching lottery tickets, and playing cards with those she loved most.

Beanie once held the honor of being a devoted wife, and throughout her life, she exemplified loyalty, kindness, and love. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.

Donna was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Frank Matthers and Marcella J. Brown. She was also reunited in eternity with her three brothers, Frank Matthers II, Dean C. Matthers, and Derryl Matthers, as well as her two sisters, Dolores Wilkinson and Marcella A. Washington. She now rests alongside the love of her life, Tyrone Briggs.

Donna leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by two special nieces, LaRica R. Matthers and LaVel Y. Matthers, whom she raised as her own daughters with unwavering care and affection. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond the role of aunt; she was a mother in every sense of the word.

She is also survived by two sisters, Dolaine L. Matthers and Doreen Thomas, and a very special niece, Monisha Fuller, lovingly known as Beanie Jr. Donna helped shape the lives of many other nieces and nephews, guiding them with wisdom, strength, and compassion through life's journey.

Among those closest to her heart were her lifelong sister friends, Cookie Moultry (Kay) and Valerie Hunter, whose bond with Donna was one of enduring friendship and love. She also leaves behind a host of cousins, extended family members, and cherished friends.

Donna was more than an aunt, mother, sister and more than a friend. She was a confidant, a protector, and a beacon of love to so many. The number of lives she touched is too great to name, but each relationship she built was held close and treasured deeply. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever celebrated.

Rest easy, Beanie. Your spirit lives on in every laugh, every memory, and every heart you touched.

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