Larry D. Matthews, 79, of Massillon, passed away gently, early Thursday morning, February 19, 2026. Born in Sidney, Nebraska, June 25, 1946, a son to the late William Paul and Flora Laverne (Curtis) Matthews, Larry had faced health and mobility challenges throughout his life but always had a smile for everyone. He enjoyed a quiet, modest lifestyle, and until this last year, was able to live independently in the home where he grew up. He felt safe and secure there and happily welcomed family and friends in to visit. Visits that often included a round or more of the dice game “Farkle,” that he always enjoyed. Larry also loved listening to all kinds of music.
Predeceased by his parents; Larry is survived by his sister, Cindy Baughman, of Canton; nephews, Justin (Christal) Baughman, of Livonia, Michigan, Donald Baughman (and fiancée, Amy Ezerski), and Philip Baughman, all of Massillon; several cousins and good friends.
Funeral services will be conducted at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Atkinson Feucht Hare Funeral Home in Massillon. The family will receive condolences for thirty minutes prior to the service, from 4:00-4:30 p.m. in the funeral home. Chaplain Darrell Maze of Aultman Hospice will officiate. A private burial will follow.
The family has suggested memorial contributions made to the Massillon SAM Center – 413 Lincoln Way East, Massillon, Ohio 44646, or the Humane Society of Stark County – 5100 Peach Street NE, Louisville, Ohio 44641.
Your memories and condolences are always welcome and may be added here to Larry’s on-line guestbook.
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