Reverend Dale E. Matthews

Rev. Dale E. Matthews of Deltona, FL passed away Monday April 26, 2021 in the comfort of his family and loved ones. He was 82. Dale is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Patricia; son Dale E. Matthews II (Vera) of Waukesha, WI; son Kenneth T. Matthews of Deltona, FL; daughter Karyn (Bill) Stanley of Apopka, FL; daughter Kelly L. Dahl of Deltona, FL; and daughter Kimberly A. (Michael) Brown of Sanford, FL; as well as 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dale was a lifetime ordained Evangelican Minister for 60 years, training under the late Evangelican Minister AA Allen. Dale spent his life traveling all over the world sharing his faith of love and belief in God that no one would ever miss the opportunity to hear the words of the love of Christ. Dale preached in numerous churches, revivals, as well as held his own church in his beloved city of his birth, Chicago, for many years. Dale then expanded his ministry, Grace Churches International, to in field ministry, hospital visits, and expanded to radio and the mail ministry, which he called Church in the Mailbox. Dale lived his life as he preached, sharing compassion, love and hope in Jesus Christ to anyone he ever met. Although Dale had a quiet and reserved demeanor, his family always joked that his ministry microphone was always on as he was always ready to stop and talk of his beloved faith to anyone who needed to hear those words.

Outside of his ministry, Dale was a devoted father of 5 children, as well as to his 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as Poppy. Dale also had a gift of poetry and literature writing, and published several articles and poems to inspire and encourage others. Dale was the shining light to others who others seem to gravitate toward with his kindness, sense of humor and love for others. For those that knew him they could see the reflection of God's love in his eyes and presence. Although he will sadly be missed by those that are still on their life's journey, we take solace that Dale is receiving his so well deserved reward and is in the presence of the one who loves him the most.

A celebration of the life of Dale will be held at:

Deltona Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens

1295 Saxon Blvd

Orange City, FL 32763

Friday, April 30th

A visitation will take place at 2pm with a short service following at 3pm. Interment will follow immediately after at Hollywood Cemetery in Orange City, FL.