Born on January 28, 1952 in Houston Texas, the son of Dallas J. Matthews Jr. and Garland Smith Matthews, Nick moved to Jasper while attending high school and carried on to Stephen F. Austin, graduating with a degree in Business. Continuing the legacy of his prominent grandfather Garland Smith and late brother Dallas J. Matthews III, whom he succeeded as chief Abstractor, Nick dedicated the remaining years of his life to ensuring the continued success of one of East Texas' oldest, most established family businesses.

For nearly three decades Nick was a firefighter and Secretary of Treasury to the Volunteer Fire Department of Jasper, positions that perfectly highlight his selflessness, altruism and exceptional generosity of spirit. Over the course of his service, Nick began and maintained a unique collection of patches and badges from fire departments around the world that is currently displayed in the firehall. His involvement, alongside his remarkable mustache, started many long lasting friendships and further established Nick as a pillar of the local community.

From a very young age, Nick had a deep personal interest in history, including his family's influential heritage, collecting historical Texas flags, military firearms and never missing a stop at roadside historical markers. Among the long list of accomplishments in Nicks life, there is not one that can compare to how extraordinary a father he was. He provided an unconditional love that is unmatched and undeniable to those who knew him.

Nick fought his battle with cancer with silent heroism and a concern for everyone but himself. He is survived by his two brothers, John H. Matthews II and Shannon S. Matthews; his sister Clara May Matthews; his two daughters Kristy Nicole Matthews and Ashley Matthews-Lambert and his beloved Jack Russell, Kozmo.

Memorial Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday October 10, 2012 at First Baptist Church with a reception to follow at the Jasper Fire Department.