Mrs. Judy Post Matthews, of Assawoman, passed away in her home on Jan. 22, 2026, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loved ones.
Judy was born on Oct. 11, 1943, on Chincoteague Island. She grew up on Ocean Boulevard in a home built by her father, Roy. As a child, she enjoyed spending countless days with her beloved friends, Mary Lou, Wayne, and Wyle Maddox, who lived on the next street over.
As an adult, she took immense pride and joy in her work at various establishments on the island, including managing the Maddox Family Campground, Birchwood Motel, and Flagship Restaurant. She was also a proud member of the Eastern Star and a volunteer at the Methodist Church’s Opportunity Shop, where she had many friends. Most especially, Judy valued her role as a mother, grandmother, and homemaker.
Judy was a talented woman with many hobbies. She loved gardening and had a knack for growing and tending to all types of flowers and plants. Judy enjoyed crafting, especially knitting and sewing, cooking for all types of family gatherings, and exploring and collecting treasures and antiques. She especially loved spending time on the water clamming, crabbing, or simply just relaxing on the boat with her friends and family.
She was truly an islander, complete with sand between her toes.
She never missed an opportunity to share her passions with her children and grandchildren, creating fond memories that will live on in the hearts of her family.
Judy is survived by her husband, Glenn; her children, Renee Holston, John Hickman (Lisa), Tammie Matthews (Jay), Jeff Merritt, Keith Merritt (Valerie), and Kevin Merritt (Kathy); her grandchildren, Damien Waldner (Samantha), Alyssa Harris (Howie), Alyson Heenan (Austin), Sean Merritt, Jenna Merritt, and Billy Kincaid; her great-grandchildren, Averly, Scotti, Gracie, and Alex; and her beloved pets, Gabby, Trumpie, and Lilly.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Peggy Post; and her brother, Jack Post.
A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 28, at Salyer Funeral Home on Chincoteague Island, with visitation one hour prior.
Because of Judy’s love for animals, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Eastern Shore SPCA.
Online condolences can be given at www.salyerfh.com
Services were entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home, Inc., Chincoteague Island.
