John Gearin Matthews

Friends will be received at the funeral home on Sunday from 3-7 PM. 

A funeral procession will form Monday 9 AM at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 AM at Immaculate Conception Church. 

Burial will follow in Saint Mary's Cemetery.

John Gearin Matthews, affectionately known as “Gearin” or “Matty”, passed away on October 19, 2026, in his hometown of Kingston, New York, at the tender age of 97. Gearin was born to Harry and Ruth Matthews on November 14, 1928, in Kingston. He lived in the same house for 97 years! Gearin married the love of his life Rose Perry Matthews on June 6, 1948. She passed away in 2001.

Gearin began working at Kingston Laundry for 17 years. He then began his 30-year career at Rotron. He was a Life Member for Union Hose Fire Department. Gearin loved to have a good time! One of his fondest memories every summer was vacationing in Lake George with friends. He enjoyed meeting his friends every evening at Gallo Park, they became known as the Dock Rats. Gearin took pleasure in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Gearin is survived by his daughter Linda Polacco and her husband Chuck of Kingston, NY. Daughter Rita Schlichter and her husband Keith of Mt Pleasant, SC and a son John Matthews Jr and his wife JoAnne of Kingston, NY. Grandchildren: CJ Polacco, Tanya Polacco, Ryan Polacco (Nicole), Kylie Grieco (Vito), Megan Schlichter, Melissa Winne (Lee) Great Grandchildren: Jordan Polacco (Joe Stenta), Chad Polacco, Cassie Weed (John), Kaylee and Olivia Williams, Rylee, Gianna and Cole Polacco, Kaleb, Nolen and Hatley Grieco, Isabel Newsome, and Keegan Winne. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Gearin is reunited with his beloved wife, Rose, his cherished great grandson, Eric Newsome, his brothers Donald and Gerard Matthews and sister Joan Wojociehowski along with many cherished family members.

In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to make a donation in his memory to: Hudson Valley Hospice - 80 Washington, Suite 204 Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.