Yoneko “Nicky” Matson, 89, passed away on October 6, 2022, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born March 15, 1933, in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, daughter of the late Shomatsu and Tsuya (Meguro) Shima. She met her loving husband, Charles Edwin Matson, in Japan while he was serving in the U.S. Army. They were married in 1963 and celebrated 58 years together.
She was a longtime member of the First Southern Baptist Church in Junction City where she served faithfully for many years in various roles such as church secretary, Sunday school teacher, and deacons’ wife. Most recently she was a member of Center Bethel Church in Parsons.
She loved spending time with her family and being active in the community. She served as a Den Mother for several years for the BSA, and was part of both a mixed and women’s bowling league for many years, including Women’s State Championship Bowling Team in 1978.
After retirement, she stayed active in several community YMCA Senior programs such as water aerobics, crafts and line dancing. She was an avid seamstress and loved to cook, bake, garden, and travel. Her kindness, generosity and adventurous spirit left a lasting effect on all who were blessed to know her.
She will be greatly missed by her son Richard Matson (Alyson) of Michigan, and their children: Hannah Ruth also of Michigan, and Gareth Matson (Hannah) of California. Her daughter, Lisa Payne (Rick) and their children: Kristin Payne (Adam), Trey Payne (Brittany) and Matthew Payne (Bailey) all of Parsons. As well as three great grandchildren; Ellie, Andy and JR Payne.
She was preceded in death by her parents, 4 siblings, her husband - Charles Edwin Matson, infant son Raymond Lee Matson and great grandson Daniel Isaiah Payne.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Labette Health for their care during her six years in Parsons and also the staff of Harry Hines Hospice for their thoughtfulness and caring during these last few months.
A celebration of her life will be at 2pm Thursday, Oct 13, at the Carson Wall Funeral Home in Parsons, Ks with Pastor Drew Weidert officiating. Private committal services will be at Fort Scott National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Nicky’s name to Harry Hines Hospice and may be left or mailed to the funeral home, 112 N. 26th St. PO Box 942, Parsons, KS 67357. Sent from my iPhone