Obituary Major Russell Henry Matthews (Rtd), MC RA
Major (Rtd) Russell Henry Matthews MC RA (M 1938-1941) died suddenly on 1st February 2010 after enduring a long period of ill health with dignity and courage. Beloved father of Nicky and Celia. A true officer and gentleman.
Major (Rtd) J M F Martin who was a fellow Tour Guide along with Major Matthews at Stratfield Sage House – The home of the Dukes of Wellington - attended Major Matthews’ funeral in Wokingham and kindly forwarded on the following message: -
“Russell was a most accomplished athlete, being awarded colours in 5 sports. Rugby was his forte, playing for the Gunners in UK and BAOR, Selangor (Malaya) and The Harlequins. His father once remarked on receiving his school report ‘if you were as diligent and enthusiastic in the class room as you are on the sports field, you would be a genius!’
He was a member of the Philantelic Society, a brewer or beer – he loved Tiger Beer from his days as an Ali OP pilot in Indonesia at the end of WW2 and in Malaya during the Emergency.
He went into politics as a second career, becoming the very successful Agent to William Straubenzee and the very young John Redwood, both of Wokingham. The latter gave one of the Appreciation Tributes at the Service.”