William (Billy) Lewis Matthews, III passed away on May 17, 2022 at his home near Decherd at the age 71. He was born on December 17, 1951 in Terrell, Texas to the late William Lewis Matthews, Jr. and Ellen Beverly Hanby Matthews. He moved with his family to Decatur, Alabama when he was three and graduated from Decatur High School as a National Merit Scholar. He attended Sewanee University where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and graduated with honors in both Forestry and Economics. He spoke fondly of his time and adventures at Sewanee and remained involved with his fraternity, Sigma Nu, until recently. He owned Matthews Forestry and always enjoyed sharing his knowledge and expertise in forestry. He was an enthusiastic University of Alabama football fan. He was also a lover of music and enjoyed attending concerts and listening to his vinyl record collection. Throughout the years, he always had a devoted canine companion who went everywhere with him, even to his work in the woods. He is survived by his sister, Beverly Matthews Atkeson, his brother, Brian Douglas Matthews, and two nieces, Ellen Margaret Atkeson and Susan Lee Atkeson. A private memorial service for his family will be held at a later date. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a favorite charity. Moore-Cortner Funeral Home 300 First Ave, NW Winchester, TN 37398 931.967.2222
