Ronald Eugene Matherly
October 7, 1944 — October 21, 2026
Ronald Eugene Matherly of Penhook, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born to the late Roy and Kate Matherly, Ronald was one of ten children. He built a house on the land where he grew up. He loved reminiscing about his childhood and often shared stories of growing up in a large family and the experiences, hard work, and simple pleasures of life on the family farm.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Kate Matherly; his daughter, Susan Walker; his brothers, J.B. Matherly, Carrol “Blue” Matherly, Raymond Matherly, Page Matherly, and George Matherly; and his sisters, Estelle Oakes and Rebecca Pagans.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 44 years, Betty Matherly; his daughter, Christy Shrader and her husband, Kris; his cherished grandchildren, McKinlee Shrader and Zeke Shrader, along with Zeke’s girlfriend, Ashley; his brother, Gerald Matherly and wife, Rita; and his sister, Joan Dyches and husband, John. He also leaves behind “his dog”, Ollie, who loved spending time with his Granddaddy getting lots and lots of treats.
Ronald loved his family. His greatest joy came from spending time with those he loved, especially his grandchildren. Whether he was cheering on McKinlee at her softball games, attending Taekwondo and VMI events to support Zeke, or simply enjoying time together, he took great pride in being a grandfather. Nothing made him happier than being involved in their lives and making memories with them.
He was always up for a road trip to the beach or Pigeon Forge, and never turned down a chance to go out to eat or tag along as a shopping companion and was the designated person to carry all the bags to the car. He made friends with anyone sitting near him who was willing to listen to his stories about his grandchildren or politics. Ronald especially enjoyed Thursday night game nights with his church friends, where he shared many evenings filled with laughter, food (which according to him “Wayne loved to prepare”), fellowship, and good company.
Recently Ronald was blessed with his caregivers, Tina Perdue and Amber Goldenbaum, who went above and beyond to make him feel loved and cared for. The care and attention they showed Ronald meant more than words can express. He also thought so much of Heather Patterson, his favorite waitress at Sago’s, who always made sure he had hot coffee and knew his order and how he liked his food brought to the table.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Good Samaritan Hospice for the excellent care and compassion shown to Ronald during the final weeks of his life. A very special thank-you goes to his primary nurse, Suzie, whose exceptional care, gentle spirit, and genuine compassion brought comfort not only to Ronald but to his entire family during such a difficult time. Her kindness will not be forgotten.
Ronald will be remembered for the love he had for his family, the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures, and the special place he held in the hearts of those who knew him. While he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he shared will remain with his family and friends forever.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Carilion Clinic Foundation
(NICU Donation, 903 S Jefferson Street, Roanoke, VA 24016 www.carilionfoundation.org/give).
Funeral services will be held at Forrest Hill Christian Church, 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 24, 2026. Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery. His family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.
Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.
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