Donna Kay Matlock

Donna Kay (Crockett) Matlock, 82, of Manteno IL, passed away on May 27, 2025 in her home surrounded by her loving family and friends. Donna was born on May 30, 1942 in Metropolis IL, daughter of Lanis James and Daisy Mae Crockett. She moved to East Gary (Lake Station) IN in 1958 and met her best friend Linda (Matlock) Tarnow, then graduated from Thomas Edison High School in 1960. September 24, 1960, she married the love of her life, Ronald (Buddy) Matlock and was a homemaker and loving mother of three. During their forty-six years in Lake Station, she enjoyed playing softball, AKA “rag arm” and was in several bowling leagues for years. Their children were involved in many sports and music and she never missed a single event no matter how far away it was. In 2000, she developed the love for horses and they moved to San Pierre, IN in 2006. It was the property of their dreams, also known as “Matlock’s Green Acres”and resided there for eighteen years. They were surrounded by horses, cats, dogs, birds and even wildlife. She made it to every class reunion and enjoyed having lunch with her old classmates and bowling friends every month. She was the most loving wife, mom and mawmaw. The love for her family and animals was obvious to anyone that knew her. In November of 2024, they moved to Manteno, IL to be closer to family. Donna is survived by her husband of almost 65 years, Ronald (Buddy) Matlock, three children, Guy Michael Matlock, Carla Mae Matlock-Baker, Lori Michelle Matlock-Coster (husband Jeff), sister, Sandra Snyder, sister-in-law, Martha Dian Craft, Collette and Eulene Crockett, brother-in-law, Herb Tarnow, twelve grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Proceeded in death by both of her parents, two brothers, James and Edward Crockett, son-in-law Denby (DJ) Baker and her infant son, Scott Mitchell Matlock. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 13, 2025 at Oak Ridge Clubhouse from 1pm-5pm. In honor of Donna, please wear bright and cheerful colors! Oak Ridge Clubhouse 1099 Oakridge Dr. Manteno, IL. 60950 Donations to New Beginnings for Cats would be gratefully accepted in lieu of flowers. https://www.facebook.com/share/1BJiBkTHGy/?mibextid=wwXIfr If sending flowers/plants, please send to 194 Norway Dr Manteno IL. 60950

Donna Kay Matlock

May 30, 1942 - May 27, 2025