Albert (“Al”) John Matta, 82, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on April 13, 2026, in the comfort of his home in Nashville, NC, surrounded by his family. Born on March 28, 1944 in Donora, PA, Al’s life was a testament to his dedication to his family and loved ones.

Al was a man of many talents. He was an artist, a woodworking craftsman, an avid outdoorsman, a dead-eye behind the gun, a master steak griller, and a hot dog and coffee connoisseur. At one time in his life, he knew every place in Eastern North Carolina to buy three hot dogs for a dollar.

Also known for his loyalty, he was not only a devoted husband of 60 years, but also loyalty to his financial services career, working for the same company for 40 years. He was loyal to his country by honorably serving in the National Guard for six years. He was even loyal to his grill, everyone who knew him knew that his steaks needed no seasoning; the 30 years of crud on his grill made them flavorful and craved by all.

Some would say he is best known for his lightning fast wit and humor, though his true talent was his special love that he shared not only with his immediate family, but also with his nieces, nephews, and the children of his closest friends. He often took them fishing, introduced them to hunting, and taught them skills in his woodworking shop.  His woodworking can be found all over the country.

During the last year and a half of his life, his daughter, Allyson Keffer, was his primary caregiver. She lovingly devoted much of her time to taking excellent care of her dad. She did this with selfless pride and incredible honor: “For you, Dad, no charge!”

His family finds peace knowing he is with Jesus now. In the last few months of his life, he could be heard singing his favorite hymns and speaking about one day being on the banks of the Jordan.

He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Davis Matta; his children, Allyson Keffer and her husband, Mike, and his son, Chad Matta; his grandchildren, Lauren, Angus, Cran, Taylor, and Brooke; his great-grandchildren, Mathys, Eunan, and Benjamin; his brother, Craig Matta and his wife, Connie; his sister, Anna Wall Williams and her husband, Dan; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Albert Matta, and his mother, Cora Matta.

A celebration of Al’s life, followed by a sit-down dinner, will be held on May 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Smith’s Pavilion of Dorches, 3713 N. Halifax Rd., Rocky Mount, NC 27804. Officiated by Pastor Rick Gaskins, the family looks forward to celebrating his life with family and friends.

The family would like to thank Nash UNC Hospice for the excellent care given, as well as Garlinda Davis, Judy Hawkins, Pam Blair, and Rachel Bratton for their loving care and service.