Charles "Chuck" Matheny

Charles “Chuck” Lee Matheny, known affectionately as “Ab” by his family and childhood friends, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, in Murray, Kentucky. Born on May 24, 1941, in Bartow WV, Chuck’s strength and determination gained him the respect and admiration of all those that knew him throughout his 83 years of a life well-lived.
 
Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Jean Matheny, and their children, Julia Ann Boyd (Jeremy) of Murray, KY, and Marshall Alan Matheny (Cheryl) of Houston, TX. He was a cherished brother to Cheryl Nelson, Robin Madron, Heather Suedkamp, Larry Matheny, Jerry Matheny, and Roger Davis. His legacy continues through his adored grandchildren, Tyler Matheny, Jayden Boyd, and Jude Boyd.
 
After proudly serving his country as a member of the 101st Airborne in the US Army, Chuck was able to utilize the GI Bill to further his education and became a proud alumnus of West Virginia University with a degree in Forestry, becoming the first in his family to graduate college.  After college, Chuck, began his 35-year career at Westvaco, rising through the ranks to Forestry Manager.  In addition, Chuck served on countless boards and organization such as the Land Between the Lakes advisory board, TN Conservation League, was a Kentucky Colonel, and many other appointments and accolades.   Chuck was well respected by his colleagues and the community for his dedication and business acumen.
 
Chuck's faith was the cornerstone of his life. As a devoted member of the Lone Oak United Methodist Church, he lived his beliefs through his actions. Chuck, a man of few words at times, believed in being judged by his actions more than his words alone.  His faith-filled life was an inspiration to many, and his selfless nature was evident in his love, support, and volunteering at the Paducah Cooperative Ministry.
 
Chuck was an outdoorsman through and through.  From the time he was able to walk, he was in the woods hunting, trapping, and just being outside.  Above all he loved to fish.  I mean LOVED, LOVED, LOVED to fish.  As a man of few words, he found solace in the tranquility of a gentle flowing river and being one with nature.  Through this love he found connection with friends and family.  Whether it was a quiet cast on the edge of a pond teaching his grandkids to fish, or an exciting trip to Alaska helping guide another into manhood.  He was truly in his element with a rod in his hand.  The lessons learned and shared in these moments will transcend time and earthly bounds.
 
A man of integrity and honor, Chuck's impact on the world was as quiet as it was profound. He was the rock of his family, a steadfast friend to those he held dear, and a gentle soul.  Through the many changes in life and all those he impacted, one thing held true above all others, the love for his wife Jean.  Through 58 year of marriage, he loved Jean with his entire being and even to his final days wanted nothing more than to make sure she was cared for.  A testament to true love.
 
As we bid farewell to Chuck, we take comfort in the knowledge that his spirit will continue to guide us. Through the stories shared, the memories cherished, and the love that he gave so freely, Chuck's legacy will endure. He was a blessing to this world and his family, and while we mourn his passing on earth, we find joy in knowing he’s hauling in a prize trout in heaven.
 
Services will be held at Milner and Orr Funeral home in Lone Oak, KY with Rev. Ben Boone and Connor Williams officiating.  Visitation will be held on Thursday April 3, 2025 from 5-8 PM; with funeral services on Friday the 4th at 11:00 AM. 
 
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Paducah Cooperative Ministry, 402 Legion Drive, Paducah, KY 42003.
 
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.