Richard Matlock

Richard Wilbur Matlock, 95, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Richard was born on January 10, 1930, in Princeton, Arkansas, to the union of Al and Emma (Harrison) Matlock.

Richard married Emma Lee (Wells) Taylor and warmly welcomed her children-Minnie, Marilyn, Millard, and Janet-as his own.  In January 1959, Richard, Emma, and children relocated to Rockford, Illinois, where they became devoted members of Saint Paul Church of God in Christ in 1960. After settling in Rockford, their family expanded with the births of daughter, Scarlett, and son, Allen.

Richard was a resolute employee of Joseph Behr, remaining until his retirement. His work ethic never wavered after retirement. His aptitude for mechanics, including removing and replacing automobile engines, was self-taught because of sheer determination and perseverance. Richard, in turn, instilled this gift of mechanical knowledge in his grandson.

Richard is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Emma; son, Ricky Watkins; granddaughter, Kralyn Washington; grandsons Kefentse Taylor and Hasani Hudson; parents; four sisters and three brothers.

Richard leaves to celebrate his life and cherish his memory daughters, Minnie (Dr. Charles M.) Washington of Roscoe, Illinois, Marilyn (Eugene) Penix of Rockford, Illinois, Janet (Garland) Craigg of Greensboro, North Carolina and Scarlett Mannery (Mark Lawson) of Rockford, Illinois and Fairburn, Georgia; sons: Millard (Thelma) Taylor of Rockford, Illinois, Allen (Stephanie) Matlock of Cortland, Illinois; beloved son, E.J. (Luvenia) Parham of Rockford, Illinois; godson, Erron Williams, Sr,. of Chicago, Illinois; survived also by many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren.

Additionally, Richard is survived by sisters-in-law Agnes Rance of Detroit, Michigan, Cleolia Penix of Rockford, Illinois, Pamela (Alton) Merrell of Warren, Ohio; brother-in-law Charles (Bonita) Wells of Detroit, Michigan; beloved nephew, James (Gloria) Locke of Rockford, Illinois; and numerous nieces; nephews; cousins.

Richard's life was marked by faith, family, and service. His legacy of love and strength will continue through all who knew him.

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