SFC (Ret.) Christopher Lynn Matthews

SFC (Ret) Christopher Lynn Matthews was born on April 10, 1969, in Crestview, Florida, at Okaloosa Memorial Hospital, to the late Clarence Sr. and Lillian Ball Matthews. He was the youngest of 7 children. A proud native of Crestview, Christopher graduated from Crestview High School in 1987, marking the beginning of a life defined by dedication and purpose.

Immediately following high school, Christopher answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army and serving in the Army Reserve. Over the course of 26 honorable years, he built a distinguished military career, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class. During his service, he traveled extensively around the world, including to Kuwait, Kosovo, Hawaii, Germany, and Afghanistan, and received numerous certificates, awards, and medals in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence. He also enjoyed traveling with his family where lots of laughs and adventure always followed.

Christopher briefly worked for Construction Service Company of Florida in Villa Tasso, continuing his strong work ethic and hands-on approach to life.

From a young age, he dedicated his life to the Lord, attending Faith Deliverance Apostolic Church in Lockhart, Alabama, and Phillip Chapel Baptist Church in Florala, Alabama. He was well known for singing alongside his sister, Ilean, as a duo in the Florala and Lockhart, Alabama areas. His faith remained a quiet but guiding force throughout his life.

Christopher was outspoken when it mattered, standing firm in his beliefs. He had a strong sense of love and protection for his family. He will be remembered for his courage, bravery, strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to both his family and career.

Christopher was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Matthews Sr.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Lillian Matthews of Crestview, Florida, and his siblings: Villian “Ilean” Matthews, Clarence Matthews Jr., Charles Matthews, Kenneth “Ray” Matthews (Patricia), Cletus Matthews (Shylaine), and Kent Matthews. He is also survived by his oldest niece, LaToya Matthews, whom he lovingly treated and confided in as a younger sister, and his uncles and aunts: Ted Matthews (Bernadine), Fred Matthews (Joyce), John Matthews (Mary), Doris Robertson, Emmitt “Jim” Matthews, and Dottie Ball.

Christopher also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will continue to honor his life and legacy.

He will be deeply missed, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of SFC (Ret.) Christopher Lynn Matthews, please visit our floral store.