Janet L. (Sawin) Matthews

ATHOL- Janet L. (Sawin) Matthews, 81, of White Pond Rod, died late Friday night, October 4, 2024 at Wachusett Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Gardner.

Born in Athol on July 29, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Clifford and Shirley (Meuse) Sawin and grew up in South Athol and graduated from Athol High School.

During her childhood, Janet was a member of the 4-H Club and was also crowned “Honey Queen” in 1960 from the Franklin County Bee Association.

Janet was employed by the Quabbin Valley Healthcare in Athol as the Activities Assistant, Following her retirement,  Janet continued to volunteer at the nursing home.

Janet loved flea markets, going to the casinos and walking, but most of all spending time with her family.

Survivors include her son, Ronald Matthews and his wife, Sheryll, of Costa Rica; granddaughters, Holly Matthews of Orange and Heather Gray of Athol; a brother, James “Butch” Sawin of Athol; and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

Besides her parents, Janet was predeceased by her sons, Robert Matthews Jr. and Russell Matthews, as well as a brother, Jesse Sawin, and a sister, Jean Johnson.

Calling hours will be held Thursday Evening, October 10, 2024 from 5-7 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024 at 11 a.m. in South Cemetery, 585 South Main Street, Orange.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

Guest book online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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