Mary Ruth (Wallace) Matthews
Obituary
Mary Ruth Matthews, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away on August 20, 2023, in Windsor, CA, after a courageous fight with Leukemia and Lymphoma. Born on February 7, 1951, in Healdsburg, CA, to Leroy and Virginia Wallace, Mary stood as a bedrock of love and strength for all who knew her.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Matthews, and her children Wendy Taylor (Aguilar), Kristy Licu, and Richard Licu. She also leaves behind her brothers, LD Wallace (Sharon) and Ron Wallace (Delores). Known fondly as Nonnie, she was a cherished grandmother to Brittain Taylor (Gaskins), Anthony Aguilar, Kobe Taylor, Christopher Aguilar, Lukas Mertes, and Shawn Mertes. Her great-grandchildren, Evelynn Gaskins, Ellianna Gaskins, and Oliviana Alicea-Aguilar will also treasure her memory.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Virginia Wallace, her son Stephen Taylor, and her grandson Joseph Aguilar.
Professionally, Mary had a fulfilling career as a bookkeeper for various small companies, including Luciani Pump Company. In the mid-'80s, she also co-owned and operated Masini and Selzle with her brothers Ron and LD. Beyond her career, Mary was an avid seamstress and loved family outings. From weekends boating at Lake Sonoma when the kids were younger, to UTV adventures as the grandkids came along. She also enjoyed RV trips with her friends and siblings. Mary especially loved zooming around in her little red convertible – sporting a big smile, with sunshine on her face and wind in her hair.
Her home was open to all; Mary welcomed anyone in need, and many lifelong friendships were formed in her home. The snack pantry was always open, and her advice was both free and invaluable.
A special thank you goes to Katie Olsen and our Aunt Sharon Wallace for their invaluable support during Mary's last days. The family couldn't have done it without you!
In lieu of flowers, contributions to your local blood bank, in any form, would be appreciated. Blood and platelet donations were invaluable in giving Mary an extra year of life, a gift her family will forever treasure. A small, private celebration of life will be held in the future.
Mom, you will be missed but never forgotten. May you rest in peace.
Published in Healdsburg Tribune · September 15, 2023