Pamela S Matthews

Pamela S. Matthews, known by most as Pam and affectionately called "Jyma” by her grandkids, was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother who passed away on June 15, 2024. Born on February 4, 1954, in Nashville, TN., Pam brought love, kindness, and joy to those who knew her.

As a child and through adulthood, Pam was a member of Foster's Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. She held Christian values and put much faith in God through her life's journey. 

Pam began her formative education, attending Cameron High School prior to its closing in 1971 and was a part of the first class to graduate, McGavock High School in 1972. She furthered her education at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech and Hearing in 1976. At MTSU, she was on the first initiated line of the Eta Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, where she formed lifelong friendships and represented the sisterhood with dignity and class.

Beginning her career as a Speech and Hearing Therapist, she shifted her focus to early childhood education, beginning her professional journey at Metropolitan Action Commission Head Start, where she worked tirelessly for three decades. Starting as a Mental Health and Disability Coordinator, she rose through the ranks and retired as the Director of Program Design Research and Compliance. Her leadership and dedication made her instrumental in the success of the largest childhood development program in Davidson County. While parenting and working, she advanced her education to earn a Master's degree in Child Development and Family Studies from Alabama A&M, which equipped her to make a difference in the lives of children and families. She then held various positions within the Tennessee Head Start Association, demonstrating her commitment to early childhood education.

Throughout her career, Pam received numerous accolades for her outstanding contributions. She was honored with the Head Start Heroes Award and the Changing Lives Award from Vanderbilt University. Her passion for early childhood education extended beyond her professional life, as she actively participated in organizations such as the Tennessee Early Intervention Advisory Committee, Promise Neighborhood Pre-K Planning Committee, Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance, National Head Start Association, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Pam was married to John E. Matthews Jr., and shared two daughters, Taiwana and Jania. Her most cherished role was that of a mother and grandmother. Her love and devotion to her daughters, Taiwana and Jania, were unwavering. She also found immense joy in being a grandmother and shared a very special bond with the eldest grandchild, Jaalon. Her nurturing spirit and endless support will forever be remembered.

Pam was preceded in death by her loving mother, Katie L. Dale; stepfather, James O. Dale; and adoptive father, James Robert Smith. She is survived by her children, Taiwana and Jania Matthews; stepbrothers James Dale (Connie), Wayne Dale (Jackie), and Robert Gary Seacrest—four grandchildren: Jaalon, Jerimee, Jaxon, Joshwa, and extended family and cherished friends. 

Pam will be remembered as a respected individual who touched the lives of many. Her kindness, compassion, and commitment to education have left a lasting impact on the community. She will be missed and forever cherished in our hearts. May her soul rest in eternal peace.