JULIA ANN WOOD MATTHEWS, 91 years young of Great Mills, MD passed away on July 29, 2024 peacefully at home. She was born on October 30, 1932 in Mechanicsville, MD to Margaret Ann Pilkerton and Bernard Melvin Wood. On May 30, 1954, Julie was married to T. Douglas Matthews, her soulmate and partner in life. They were blessed with three children, Jeanne Raley (Garry) of Hollywood, MD, Patti Harrison (Rob) of Richland, MI and David Matthews (Barbara) of Lusby, MD.

On May 30, 1954, Julie married her soulmate and lifelong partner, T. Douglas Matthews. Together, they shared a life filled with love and joy, raising three children: Jeanne Raley (Garry) of Hollywood, MD, Patti Harrison (Rob) of Richland, MI, and David Matthews (Barbara) of Lusby, MD.

A proud lifelong resident of St. Mary's County, Julie was a graduate of St. Mary's Academy, Class of 1950. Throughout her life, Julie wore many hats, but none as important as that of a devoted wife and loving mother. In 1987, they opened their family-owned business, Matthews Outdoor Power Equipment, where she became an integral part as a dedicated secretary.

Julie's zest for life was evident in her many passions and hobbies. She was an avid bowler, participating in numerous leagues from duckpin to ten pin, and traveled as far as Las Vegas to compete in tournaments. Her love for bowling was matched only by her enthusiasm for bingo, where she could often be found alongside her sisters, trying their luck at local churches and schools.

A fan of the casino scene, Julie enjoyed gambling, playing pranks, and having fun with her friends. Her spirited nature extended to weekly card games and dancing. Julie and Douglas were renowned for their dynamic dance moves, captivating onlookers with their grace and rhythm. Even in recent years, she could be found two-stepping in the kitchen, sharing moments of joy with family.

Julie also gave back to her community through her volunteer work with the Ladies of Charity at Holy Face Church and local food pantries, embodying her generous spirit and dedication to helping others.

She is survived by her children, 11 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren and her siblings, Evelyn Arnold of Leonardtown, Linda Reynolds of Mechanicsville, Melva Rita Buckler of Mechanicsville, Beverly Pelczar of Mechanicsville, Margaret Mary Burch of Charlotte Hall, and many many nieces and nephews. Julie was predeceased by her parents, beloved husband and siblings Rae Garner, Imogene Burroughs, Joyce Hammett, Charles Wood, Richard Wood, Janice Long, Jacqueline Dalton and Zack Wood.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024 starting at 9:00 AM at Holy Face Catholic Church, 20408 Point Lookout Road, Great Mills, MD 20634, with a Mass of Christian burial to follow at 10:00 AM with Father Scott Holmer officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.