Carol Ann (Caldwell) Matlock

Carol Ann Caldwell Matlock, age 88, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, entered her heavenly home on April 2, 2026.

She was born on January 28, 1938, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Jess Caldwell and Nona Jane Fields Caldwell. She graduated from Fort Smith High School in 1956 and briefly attended college. On March 5, 1960, Carol married the love of her life, G. David Matlock, at Roebuck Chapel in Fort Smith. Together, they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family.

Carol spent her early teaching days in second and seventh grades in public school. A woman of many talents and passions, Carol was an avid gardener, a talented artist, and a member of the competitive adult tennis team at the Fort Smith Racquet Club. She also served as a Girl Scout leader and held numerous volunteer roles throughout her life. Above all, she was a devoted student of God’s Word. For over 60 years, Carol was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith. There, she taught kindergarten for 13 years and led many Sunday school classes, always eager to share her love of the Lord with others. She was the head of the church’s flower ministry for many years, where she created floral arrangements from each Sunday’s altar flowers that were delivered to members in local hospitals and nursing homes. 

Carol will be remembered as a friend to all, accepting, compassionate, and endlessly giving. She inspired those around her with her generosity and willingness to lend a hand. Her warm smile was infectious, and her wisdom was shared freely without judgment. Her life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and love, which inspired all who knew her. Most importantly, she was a prayer warrior whose faith was evident in both her words and her actions.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Matlock Lewis of Sanford, North Carolina; four grandchildren, Lauren Matlock Booker (Wes), Bethany Matlock (Brian Blakemore), Zachary Lewis (Erika), and Zane Lewis; and three great-grandchildren, Clementine, Oliver, and Madeline. She is also survived by her brother, Dave Caldwell (Carol) of Phoenix, Arizona; her daughter-in-law, Cheryl Matlock; as well as many beloved cousins, friends, and members of her church community.

She was preceded in death by her husband, G. David Matlock; her parents, Jess and Nona Jane Caldwell; and her son, Brian Matlock.

A service to celebrate Carol’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 8, at 10:00 a.m. at Roebuck Chapel, First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas. A brief reception will follow in the church narthex. Pallbearers will be David Farris, David Adrian, Gary Newton, John Stauffer, Lance Kimes, and Neil Griggs.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First United Methodist Church of Fort Smith missions or to a charitable organization of your choice. Services are entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.

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