Glenn Matchett
Glenn Matchett of Kosse, Texas entered into the Gates Of Heaven on Sunday Morning June 14, 2020 after a brief illness at age 91.
Buford Glenn Matchett was born in San Antonio Texas on May 14, 1929. He was raised in and around the Houston area by his Momma Viola Venis Ryan Matchett and his Daddy James Lewis Matchett.
In 1945 At 16 Glenn lied about his age and joined the United States Merchant Marines where he spent the last days of World War 2 on a Troop Transport ship in the pacific.
A year later his mother signed the proper releases and Glenn entered into the United States Navy at age 17. Glenn spent the majority of the next 10 years aboard the USS Randolph and worked as an aircraft mechanic throughout the Korean War. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in February of 1955.
On March 15, 1955, Glenn, fresh from the military, he married the love of his life, Iris June Catron whom he was married to for 65 wonderful years. They went on to have 3 wonderful children whom they devoted their life to and adored.
After marriage, they began their lives in Duson Louisiana. Where Glenn worked various oilfield jobs. In 1957 he returned to Houston to attend College at the University of Houston where he studied Automotive and Diesel Technician. After Graduation in 1958, he was hired at Mustang Tractor and Equipment as a Diesel Mechanic where he worked several years. Glenn also worked for Don McMillan Ford as well as owned his own Gas Station/mechanic shop for several years.
In 1970 Glenn moved his family to Sealy TX where they made a home, raised their children, and developed many life long friendships.
In 1978 Glenn moved his family to Kosse Texas. Glenn and Iris soon began work on their new business adventure and on January 1, 1979, the doors to Matchett’s Personal Care Home were opened. Over the next 30 years, countless numbers of veterans were cared for in that home.
In the early ’80s after the Personal Care home was established and doing well Glenn decided that he wanted to serve again. Glenn went to McLennan Community College and became a police officer. Glenn worked for Mexia Police Department for many years and developed many friendships. He even had the chance to work alongside his sons who had become officers themselves. Several years later Glenn got the opportunity to serve his small hometown and became the Chief of police in Kosse. Along with serving as the police chief Glenn also a Kosse VfD member. At the time of his death although not active Glenn was the second-longest rostered member At Kosse VFD Something that he was so very proud of.
Another great thing happened to Glenn in 1970 after he moved his family to Sealy Tx. On Mother’s Day he attended church and along with his wife Iris became a born again Christian. Glenn faithfully served and loved the lord for the remainder of his life. He was a Board Member and Deacon for the First Assembly of God in Thornton for well over 30 years. Glenn was a warrior for Christ. He built many churches with his bare hands and lead many souls to the lord. He was also a member of the Light Keepers chapter of the Circut Riders Motorcycle ministries. A Christian Biker Ministry where his nickname was “Pawpaw”. Pawpaw was a faithful servant of the Lord and never missed a chance to witness about Jesus. It didn’t matter where he was or who he was around he was there to win souls for the Lord
After a very brief battle with throat cancer. On Sunday, June 14, 2020, at 6:30 am, Glenn was called home to be with the Lord. He was surrounded by loved ones and took his last breaths being held and loved on.
Glenn was proceeded in death by his mother Viola Venis Ryan Matchett his father James Lewis Matchett Brother Charlie Matchett, sister Avie Sharon, Brother and Sister-law Grady, and Iliene Shropshire. Brother-in-law Donald Hampton. Brother and sisters-in-law law Ed and Mary Catron.
He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Iris June Catron Matchett. His eldest son James Earl Matchett and Wife Yvonne. His Only Daughter Glenda Vale Matchett and His youngest son Bradley Glenn Matchett.
His Grandchildren Jack Matchett and his wife Kim. Joey Harris and his girlfriend Sarah. Brandon Matchett and his wife Larissa. Justin Matchett. Hannah Skinner and Her husband Austin.
Great Grandchildren. Braxton Harris, Baileigh Harris, Emma Matchett, Madi Whigham, Zaylie Matchett, Thomas Matchett, Jackson Matchett, Emily Matchett, Sister-in-law Norma Catron Hampton and Numerous Nieces, Nephews, Great Nieces, and Great Nephews whom he loved so much.
Honorary pallbearers are Jackie Matchett, Brandon Matchett, Joey Harris, Justin Matchett, Thomas Matchett, Braxton Harris, Jackson Matchett, Austin Skinner and Joe Ledford.
Family visitation will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2020, at Thornton First Assembly of God Church from 10-12 and a Memorial Service will take place at 2:00 pm.