Our hearts are heavy as we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Dorothy Points Matthews, who left us on August 26, 2023. Dorothy, the oldest of seven children, was born to Wilbur and Katherine Jones in Omaha, Nebraska, on January 2, 1935.
At the age of eight, her family moved to Bakersfield, California, where her father began his work with the Southern Pacific Railroad during the trying years of the Great Depression. Dorothy's recollections of those times included meals that often featured the dreaded turnip, a testament to the strength and resilience she carried throughout her life.Dorothy followed in her father's footsteps and dedicated approximately 30 years of her life to the Southern Pacific Railroad, beginning as a switchboard operator and later transitioning to dispatch.
Dorothy attended East Bakersfield High School, where she met her high school sweetheart, Jimmie (James Points). Their love story blossomed, and on June 13, 1953, they joined their lives in marriage. Their union was blessed with two children, Kathy in 1954 and Jamie in 1957. Dorothy's devotion to her family was unwavering; she was a loving wife and mother who never missed an important sporting event or activity in the lives of her children.
Together, Dorothy and Jimmie cultivated lasting friendships and were active members of the Retired Teamsters and the Tight Turtle camping group. Following Jimmie's retirement at the age of 56, they embarked on several years of joyous travel, creating cherished memories together. Sadly, their time was cut short when Jimmie passed away on October 28, 1995, at the age of 61.
On November 3, 2001, Dorothy found love once more when she married her second husband, Jeryl Matthews. Together, they explored the beauty of the United States and Europe, forging unforgettable experiences. Jeryl's children, Joanie and Randy, were welcomed into Dorothy's heart as if they were her own, sharing in the love and joy of their blended family.
Dorothy is survived by her loving husband, Jeryl, her children, Kathy (Bob) Davis and Jamie (Linda) Points, grandchildren Bryan (Jennifer) Davis, Kristin (Jordan) Richards, Nick (Meg) Points, Jason (Alissa Roberts) Points, and Andrew (Erin) Points, along with six great-grandchildren and a seventh soon to arrive. She is also survived by her sister, Maycelle (Larry) Davila, and brothers Wilbur jr. (Linda) Jones and Kenneth Jones.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Pacifica Memory Care for their loving and dedicated care of Dorothy during the past year.
