Olan C. Matthews of Laurel passed away peacefully on May 3, 2022 at TidalHealth Nanticoke surrounded by his loving family. Born on Feb. 27, 1934, Olan was born in Hagerstown, Md. and raised in Laurel. He is predeceased by his father, Olan C. Matthews, Sr., mother Irene W. Matthews, and sister Lois Matthews Robertson.
Olan graduated from Laurel High School in 1953 and married Ruth Jones Matthews in 1955. In the early years, he worked for Pyrofax Gas Company in Delmar and then worked for 32 years with the Pennsylvania Railroad, later known as Conrail. In retirement, he worked for many years at Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home. He was a member of Christ U.M. Church and Centenary U.M. Church, Charity Lodge #27 and the PRR Veteran Employees’ Association.
Olan is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ruth Jones Matthews, son Michael C. Matthews and his wife Cindy, grandson Alexander C. Matthews and his wife Kristina and three great-grandchildren, Madeleine C. Matthews, Catherine E. Matthews, and Thomas C. Matthews. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Eugene E. Robertson; a nephew, Eric E. Robertson; and a niece Lisa R. Ferguson of the state of Washington and several nieces and nephews.
There was a graveside service on Wednesday, May 11 at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Laurel with Pastor Dean Perdue officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Olan’s memory to Charity Lodge #27 or the PRR Veteran Employees’ Association in care of Carol Fry. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the third floor MSU staff at TidalHealth Nanticoke for their wonderful care. Arrangements are in the care of Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel.