Apostle Dorothy Rainey Matthews, 88, Founder and Senior Pastor of Word of Power Ministries, Inc., Gastonia, NC transitioned to her heavenly home on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Apostle Matthews was born on March 24, 1937, in York, SC to the late Mason Jackson Rainey and Arleva Mobley Rainey. She is proceeded in death by her loving brother Mason Jackson Rainey Jr., her grandson, Rico Matthews, her best friends and sisters, Mary Alberta Mays and the Reverend Dr. Maria Alma Rainey Copeland.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband of 69 years, retired United States Navy Chief William A. Matthews and their children; Avila (Pandora) of Gastonia, NC, Marisa of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, Jilda (John) of Charlotte, NC and Joi (Cameron) of Mint Hill, NC. She was also a loving grandmother to nine wonderful grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and spiritual sons and daughters.

Although her passing may leave a void in our hearts, we rejoice in knowing that her legacy of unwavering faith, servitude, and unconditional love for the Kingdom of God and His people made a lasting impact on the world. We are grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support that have been shown to us during this difficult time. Please continue to pray for the Matthews family, Word of Power Ministries and those near and far who have been impacted by the love and teachings of Apostle Matthews during her 49 years in ministry.

A Celebration of Life Memorial will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 6pm to 8pm at Word of Power Ministries (4010 Old York Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056).

A Homegoing Celebration will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Tabernacle Baptist Church (519 W. 19th St. Gastonia, NC 28052). Quiet Reflection will begin at 12:30pm, with the Homegoing Celebration beginning at 1pm.

Interment will follow at Gaston Memorial Park.

“I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Gal. 2:20