Stephen Demetrick Matthews was born March 15, 1975 to Charles and Ginger Matthews in Stuttgart, West Germany. Stephen was reared in Prince Georges County, Maryland where he received his formal education in the Public School System. Stephen excelled in his studies and earned a diploma from Crossland High School. After graduation, Stephen married his high school sweetheart, Shalita, in 1995, and from this union two beautiful and adorable children, Davon and Shannell, were born.
Stephen served dutifully for 10 years with the United States Air Force as a Dental Assistant and a Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC) of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He was stationed in Texas, Maryland and England, later returning to reside in Waldorf, Maryland. Stephen also volunteered to serve a tour in Haiti. In his civilian career Stephen was employed by Dr. Christopher Bonacci, D.D.S, M.D., P.C. of Va. as an Oral Surgery Technician and the Department of the Navy where he was the Supervisor of the Naval Dental Clinic. He received numerous awards and accolades for exceeding expectations in his workplace. Stephen had a motto “Whenever you do something, do it right the first time.” This was reflected daily not just in his work, but in his personal life. There was no obstacle or task that he couldn’t conquer. It seemed everything Stephen touched turned to gold.
Stephen was an involved and doting father, spending countless hours with Shannell and Davon. When there was an activity or sports event Stephen could be found in the crowd cheering his kids on. Stephen was most happiest when he was spending time with his wife, children and driving his Mother-In-Law( Ma) to church every Sunday. He could count on Britney, Briana, and Brian anxiously awaiting the weekends so they could spend time with him and their cousins, engaging in horseplay that often led to everyone getting in trouble by Shalita. Stephen enjoyed playing practical jokes on everyone and telling the kids scary stories at any given time. No matter the age, young or old, you became victim to Stephens’ pranks. Stephen saw everyday as an opportunity to spend time with family and friends. You could always count on Stephen to have something up his sleeve for everyone. The kids never knew what to expect from him and were never disappointed.
Stephen leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving wife of 15 years Shalita; children, Davon and Shannell; parents Ginger Davis (Calvin), Charles Matthews (Louise); a nurturing mother-in-law, Cynthia Douglas; two very special sisters, Marlana Matthews-Thomas (Brian), and Latasha Douglas; two brothers, Jason and Jonathan (Amanda)Warren; three nieces, Britney and Briana Matthews, and Allison Warren; one nephew, Brian Thomas, Jr. and a host of relatives and friends.
Visitation Tuesday, February 8, 2011 from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. here at Briscoe-Tonic Funeral Home. Interment Maryland Veterans Cemetery.
Offer Condolence for the family of Stephen Demetrick Matthews
Dear Shalita and Family
I am at a loss for words. I know there is nothing for me to say that will make your loss easier. My sympathy is with you in this time of grieving.
I want to let you know that I am here for you if you need anything.
I send out my condolences to you and your family. I love you guys so much
My deepest sympathy and prayers for your family
James and Vanessa Graham
Shalita,
May God Bless you and your family during this time of grief. Remember you are never alone, God is walking beside you through it all. My condolence to you and your family.
Marlana and Shalita,
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Let the memories begin.
Shalita
May God Bless you and your family during your time of grief. Remember he is walking beside you through it all. My condolence and prayers are with you and your family.