Neil Matthews

CHARLTON – Neil Matthews, 64, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2025, after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer.

Neil leaves behind his daughter, Brittany, her husband, Matt and his granddaughter Mackenzie and his first partner in life and former wife, Cheri. Neil also leaves behind his best friend, Matt and his wife and kids, his camping crew, his cousins Gail and Gareth, and his family-like co-workers at Valmet.

Neil was born in Salford, England, and later moved to Massachusetts when he was a child with his parents. He was then raised in Webster and Auburn. Neil graduated from Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School from the auto body shop, which lead to his first job working for Frank's Auto Body in Webster until getting his CDL and working for several trucking companies. Neil possessed a strong work ethic and very rarely took a day off, even earning “Driver of the Year” for Lily Trucking in 1997. Later in life Neil began working for Metso Automation (now known as Valmet) where he met his work family and developed lifelong friendships.

When he wasn't working, Neil enjoyed going to his camper in Connecticut, playing bingo, going to hockey games with his daughter, granddaughter and son-in-law, and going to motorcross races. In his younger years, Neil enjoyed riding his dirt bike, spending summers at Old Orchard Beach, playing the bass guitar and he even joined a bowling league. Neil was never without sweets or a good cup of coffee.

Neil is predeceased by his mother, Barbara Matthews and his father Lawrence Matthews. Neil is also predeceased by his aunt and uncle Myra and Ralph Edwards. His first-born little girl, Jessica, will be waiting for him on the other side as well.

Neil's family extends their deepest gratitude to the medical staff at the UMass Memorial Cancer Center and palliative care, but especially his nurse Kate from Notre Dame hospice for her never-ending support and compassion with his care.

Calling hours are Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 4-6 p.m. at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. A service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the conclusion of calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Donation Processing Center, P.O. Box 5041, Boone, IA 50950-0041.