Obituary of Michael James Matthews

Michael James Matthews, 62, of Bainbridge, passed away on April 23, 2025 at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown after a lengthy battle with cancer. Mike was born on December 9, 1962 in Hollywood, CA, son of Leon D. Matthews Jr. and Sylvia (Munzel) Strode. He was predeceased by his father, Leon D. Matthews, Jr., and two children, Mikey JR and Jessie Matthews. He is survived by his mother, Sylvia Strode; 5 children: Kayta (Austin), Tom (Shaney), Sylvia (Mike), Amanda (Matt) and Kyle (Megan). His pride and joy Sara, and other grandchildren Emma, Owen, Theo, Aiden, Kailyn, Elaina, James, Serenity, Jeffrey, Leah, Eli, Kennedy and newest baby Mav. He is also survived by several siblings: Leon Matthews III, Karen Emerson, Marty Strode, Shannon Matthews, Heather Rivera, John Matthews, Tammy Hardy, and step siblings, Robbie, Shawn, Anthony and Joy Matthews, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and grandnieces and nephews. As a kid, Mike enjoyed dirt bikes and his ponies. Into adulthood, he was a truck driver, farm hand and dairy farmer. He loved playing guitar, listening to Blues, playing pool, cooking, fishing, cracking jokes and tinkering with things. He loved animals and enjoyed helping his dad shoe horses. He had a generous spirit and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. Friends are invited to call from 1:00-3:00pm on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney, NY 13838. Burial will take place at a later date in Prospect Hill Cemetery, Sidney. Memorial donations in Mike's memory may be directed to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.