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E. Joseph "Papa Joe" Matt Obituary
E. Joseph "Papa Joe" Matt
Johns Creek, GA - E. Joseph "Papa Joe" Matt, beloved father of Emilio (Susan) Matt and Anthony (Monique) Matt, and cherished grandfather of Diana Matt, passed away on Thursday, 29 January 2026, at the age of 88.
He was preceded in death in 2002 by both his wife of thirty-eight years, Diane D. Matt (née Alagna), and his younger brother, Bernard B. "Bernie" Matt of Charleston, SC.
Born in Chicago, Illinois in May 1937, he spent his High School and College years in Charleston, SC, graduating from the University of South Carolina. After college, he returned to Chicago and made his professional career with Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing (3M), where he worked for thirty-three years as a Safety and Security Manager. After retiring, he and Diane moved to Gilbert, Arizona, where they enjoyed retirement together. In 2020, Joe moved to Georgia to be close to his sons and their families, which brought him deep joy and connection with family. During his six years in Georgia, he fostered deep and everlasting friendships with many neighbors and club members.
A celebration of life Mass will be held at 10:30 AM, on Thursday, February 5, at St. Benedict's Catholic Church, 11045 Parsons Road, Johns Creek, GA 30097 followed by a luncheon at Noon for the family and friends, at St. Ives Country Club, 1 St. Ives Country Club Drive, Johns Creek, GA 30097.
Final interment will be with his beloved Diane, at Mt. Carmel Cemetery outside of Chicago, IL.
In lieu of flowers, friends and family may donate to Joe's beloved charities in his name - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, The Wounded Warrior Foundation and/or Mount Pisgah Christian School (in Johns Creek, Georgia).
Arrangements by Lawson Funeral Home, 4532 Hwy 53 Hoschton, Ga., 30548. Lawsonfuneralhome.org. 706-654-0966.
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Memories and Condolences
for E. Joseph "Papa Joe" Matt
6 Entries
Susan Holmquist
February 5, 2026
I'm sorry for your loss of losing your father. I remember him fondly as Christopher's loving uncle and Bernie's brother. He lit up a room with his humor and huge personality. He was one of those rare personalities you don't meet very often. It was a lovely mass y'all gave him.
Susan (Christopher's aunt)
Joe Alagna
February 5, 2026
My cousin, Joe Matt, passed this month, and I watched his funeral online since they are far away. He was a great guy, always fun to be around. Once, we visited him in Arizona, and a week after we got home, two bottles of wine arrived in the mail, labeled with his and our names. It was amazing! He remembered the art of making wine, like my paternal grandfather used to do. Joe will be missed by all of us. He was an amazing man and raised two amazing sons. A special part of our family. This picture was from our wedding.
Greg and Jennifer Nelson
February 5, 2026
Me and my wife lived next to Joe in Gilbert. A truly great man, that will be missed.
John and Kris Babich
February 5, 2026
We are so sorry to learn of Joe's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. John and Kris Babich
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Debra McWherter
February 3, 2026
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
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