Blanche L. Matthews
(1932-2019)
We are saddened to say our final goodbyes to Blanche Matthews, who died on, Thursday, February 14, 2019, at the age of 87. Blanche was generous, kind, and funny, always ready with an uplifting word or an understanding ear or an open wallet. She taught her daughters and grandson to be open-minded, to think positively, to act instead of complain, to let go of the past once its lessons had been learned, and to love life. People frequently remarked on her smile, her sunshiny disposition, and her acceptance of others as they are. Her sense of humor sometimes had a wicked touch, which those who loved her enjoyed.
Blanche Lillian Ochsenbein was born on January 11, 1932, in Texarkana, Arkansas to Leda and Carl Ochsenbein. She had one sister, Carla, who preceded her in death. Blanche married Jack Matthews in December 1952 and they had two daughters, Pam and Lisa. After Blanche and Jack divorced and she retired from Chevron, Blanche moved from The Woodlands back to Bryan to be near her daughters and their loved ones.
Blanche loved nature and enjoyed being outdoors. She stayed mentally and physically fit and active throughout her life, reading constantly, working in her garden, playing bridge and tennis, walking, traveling, and exercising at the gym with her friends. She was especially fond of birds, butterflies, flowers, and her daughters’ beloved pets.
More than anything, Blanche loved her family, of whom she was fiercely proud and protective. She often traveled with Lisa and Jane Poe, discussed gardens and finances with her son-in-law Dennis Berthold, and supported Pam’s career. She had a special place in her heart for her grandson Matthew Berthold, and was looking forward to celebrating his marriage to Brian Lynch in California later this year.
The family thanks Hospice Brazos Valley, St. Joseph Rehab Center, Dr. Erin Fleener and her staff at the Cancer Center, and Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Crematory. For those who wish to honor Blanche’s memory, please consider a donation to Hospice Brazos Valley, Aggieland Humane Society or Bryan Animal Shelter, or The Gardens at Texas A&M University.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date honoring Blanche’s life. Cremation services are in the care of Callaway-Jones Funeral and Cremation Centers, Bryan-College Station.
Express condolences at CallawayJones.com
Blanche touched my life , albeit, very briefly in a tremendous way. I immediately felt a connection with her , as I did you Lisa.
I know you will miss her so much, but she lingers still in your hearts.
God Comfort you with His tender love and Peace.
My deepest condolences . May she rest with the angels ❤
I will miss my dear friend so much. She was such an important person in my life. Our daily text and sweet visits and adventures were such an important part of my daily routine! I will forever be grateful to have had her in my life. I know she will be looking out for all of us that love and miss her. Fly high my sweet Blanche! ❤️ I love you!
The picture in the Memorial is so Blanche!
She was a very special lady who loved her God and her fellow man.
Thank you all for sharing her with the Auxiliary. I am a better lady because of the example of your / our beloved Blanche.
I just know Jesus smiled when He knew she was coming!
I am so sorry to learn of Blanche’s death.
I mostly knew her from the Auxiliary at St. Joseph Hospital
but also as a fellow ”walker” in our neighborhood. I loved her
laugh and positive attitude.
My sincere sympathy.
Lila Cashion
I was so sorry to hear of Blanche’s death. We used to walk with Blance before our Great Dane Belle died. She was a lovely lady always smiling. We will definitely miss her.