Polly Matthews, 99, died August 13, 2024. She was born December 29, 1924 in Springfield, Mo. to Warner and Neva McVay, the 5th of 10 children.

Her family, the depression and WWII defined her and taught her to "never give up", "stick together", and "keep fighting".

As a teenager Polly joined her brothers' family in California. In Inglewood she finished High School, did a stint as Rosie the Riveter balancing nose cones in an airplane factory, danced with servicemen, and met the love of her life, Richard Matthews.

They started their life together in Springfield after the war. Four children were born in rapid succession, setting the tone for the next portion of her life of raising kids, attending PTA meetings and school events.

In the 60's she went to work for Springfield Travel and became part owner.  She opened her own agency, House of Travel, in 1969. This allowed her to see the world, as she traveled extensively. Richard joined her at House of Travel upon his retirement and together they made great memories traveling together.

She would often say that one of the best times of her life was when she and Richard retired from travel and moved full time to their home on Table Rock Lake. Many beautiful quilts, gardens, and family memories were created there.

Her membership to University Heights Baptist Church was integral to her life. She and Richard joined in 1945 and stayed active until their health declined. Many close friends made through the church rounded out a very full life.

Polly is survived by her four children, Kathy Matthews Seck (Magueye), Linda Strait, Ellen Magers (Randy) and David Matthews (Robin Richardson). She has 9 grandchildren, Carrie Simon, Kevin Simon, Mark Magers, Bethany Maddock, Jessie Matthews, Erin Matthews, Moussa Seck, Kathryn Wynne and Emily Zerbel, and 10 great grandchildren, Arianna, Issac and Wyatt Maddock, Andrew, Ben and Claire Magers, Eli and Norah Thomas, Jacqueline and Morgan Wynne. She is also survived by 3 siblings, Jack McVay, Betty Spiller and Kathryn Hankey and many dearly loved nieces and nephews. We wish to include a heartfelt thank you to Seasons Hospice for their greatly appreciated service.

A graveside service for family and friends will be held Thursday, August 22 at 1:00 pm at White Chapel Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to University Heights Baptist Church or Seasons Hospice.