Susan Kay (Coulter) Matthews

Susan K. Matthews, 81, of Massillon, passed away peacefully, with her husband at her side, early Thursday morning, April 20, 2023. Born in Massillon, February 17, 1942, a daughter to the late Lee and Harriet (Spencer) Coulter, Susan graduated from Washington High School with the Class of 1960. As a devoted wife and a loving and supportive mom, grandma and great-grandma, she placed her faith, her husband, and her family at the center of her life. Even before becoming a pastor’s wife, Susan possessed a servant’s heart. Her life was one of service to others – especially children. She made it her mission to educate, empower and evolve every child entrusted to her care, usually within the faith community she and her husband, Jim, were serving at the time - but there were many, many more. Their association with Canton Baptist Temple and more recently with Carrollton Bible Chapel, created the perfect opportunity for Susan to do what she so dearly loved. In her leisure time, she loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping and fishing with the family; she and Jim enjoyed traveling – like driving across the country on the renowned Route 66, or without having to go too far, just sharing company and the pleasure of discovery.  A prolific quilter, she hand-stitched dozens of beautiful, award-worthy quilts, and found pleasure in giving them away.

Predeceased by her parents; sister, Marilyn Coulter Germain, brothers, Robert and Ronald Coulter; and a daughter-in-law, Janice Matthews; Susan is survived by her husband, James A. Matthews; their sons, Mark J. Matthews, of Canton, David R. (Carrie) Matthews, of Perry Township, and Donald W. Matthews, of Louisville. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Leslie, Brandon (Sarah), and Dawson Matthews, and her great-granddaughter, Sadie Matthews.

A memorial celebration of Susan’s life will be conducted at 7:00 Tuesday evening, April 25, 2023, at Atkinson Feucht Hare Funeral Home in Massillon. The family will receive condolences one hour prior to the service, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Your memories and condolences are always welcome and may be added to our on-line guestbook. 

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