Mary Nelson Matchell's Obituary
Mary Nelson (Jones) Matchell, age 87, passed away on August 27, 2025. She was born on August 9, 1938, to Nelson and Mildred Jones.
Born and raised in Tampa, Mary was a graduate of Hillsborough High School’s class of 1956. Much of her early life was spent in Tampa where she raised her family. Later, she made a successful 30-year career in sales and marketing in the educational publishing industry, achieving several awards. She was active in the Florida Association of Instructional Materials where she served on the board of directors and as President.
Mary retired to her condo in St. Pete Beach in 2003. During the next twenty years, she spent her retirement traveling the world and visiting friends and family.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 22 years, Joe Matchell; her daughter Brenda Matchell; her brother Thomas Jones; and partner of 30 years, Preston Hall. She is survived by her son, William; her two granddaughters, Kayleigh and Lindsey; and her siblings David, Mildred, and Robert Jones.
Services will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Williams-Thomas Funeral Home, 823 NW 143rd Street Newberry, FL 32669 with Dr. Don McGarity officiating.
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