Fred Dickson Matthews, age 78, went to be with our passed away Jesus on October 30, 2018 after a long and courageous battle with multiple disabilities and COPD. Fred was under the loving care of his wife, Rita, for many years. He was born in Gladewater, Texas on May 16, 1940 to parents, Lloyd and Mary Ella Dickson Matthews. He grew up in Gladewater and graduated from Gladewater High School in 1958 and received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from North Texas State College. Fred proudly served his country for three years in the U. S. Army and was stationed in the Philippines in the field of foreign communications.Fred devoted 35 years of his life to coaching, teaching math, and touching the lives of young people. Those years were spent coaching football and baseball at the University of Texas at Arlington, Pasadena Sam Rayburn High School, The Colony High School, and others. He counted among his friends all the players he coached through the years and fellow coaches all over Texas. Fred was blessed to have a career he loved, but most of all, he loved the kids and fellow coaches. Everyone who knows Fred has heard a good football story and probably more than one.Despite years of disability and health challenges, Fred never lost his love of life and never complained about his circumstances. He remained positive and courageous until the end. Fred was a true example for all of us on how to deal with lifes adversities with character, strength, and most of all, faith in our passed away and Savior.Left behind to cherish his memory are his wife of 30 years, Rita, two sisters, Sue Martin and Pam Ross (David), stepson Brent Haynes and his family, Erin, Collin and Keller, and three nephews. Fred is also survived by three loyal friends and coaching buddies, Charles Lyles, Mike Venable, and Al Campo. We will carry your memory and life lessons in our hearts.The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to those who helped care for Fred over the years.The Matthews family will be receiving friends and family for visitationfrom 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, Monday, November 5, 2018 in the Brooks Family Chapel of the North Dallas Funeral Home, 2710 Valley View Lane, Farmers Branch, followed by a graveside service at 2:00 at Frankford Cemetery, 17400 Muirfield Drive, Dallas, Texas 75287.Please leave the family condolences and share memories on this website.