Teddy Raymond Matter, 87, of Enola, Pennsylvania, passed peacefully on February 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born July 5, 1938, in Sunbury, Pennsylvania, Teddy was a man known for his hard work, deep integrity, unwavering faith in God, and the mischievous sparkle that never left his eye.
He proudly served in the United States Air Force and later worked for many years as an Insulator before retiring in 1988. Teddy was also a member of Masonic Lodge 458. Whatever he did, he did with steadiness, honesty, and pride.
But to so many in Enola and beyond, he was simply Coach Matter.
For 65 years, he poured his heart into young men in the East Pennsboro community. Everyone knew Coach Matter — and he knew them. He believed in discipline, accountability, brotherhood, and learning how to be men of character. He offered wisdom as freely as instruction and saw coaching as more than a game — it was a calling. Years later, former players still returned to thank him, proof that his impact went far beyond the field. Through the lives he shaped, the wisdom he shared, and the faith he quietly lived, his influence will continue for generations.
Teddy was a gifted storyteller, a devoted trout fisherman, and a craftsman whose hands were rarely still. He treasured working on his mountainside property and strong coffee shared with his buddies, where stories were told, laughter was easy, and friendships were lifelong. Even into his later years, he remained active, strong, and deeply connected to the people and places he loved.
Above all, Teddy was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 60 years, Virginia. Their marriage was a quiet testament to loyalty and enduring love. He loved his family fiercely and without reservation but being “Pap” was one of his greatest joys. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought out his softest smile and proudest moments. Nothing meant more to him than watching them grow, cheering them on, and simply having them near.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years Virginia (Zerfing) Matter, son, Ty Matter; his grandson Joshua Matter and wife Leslie (Benoist) Matter; and great-grandchildren Breeann Matter and Landon Matter.
He is also survived by his daughter, Dana (Matter) Bonds and husband David Bonds; and grandchildren Tasha Tanton, Branson Bonds, Travis Bonds and Dalanie Bonds,
his brother, Bill Matter (Barb); his sisters, Shirley (Matter) Sgrignoli and Gail (Robert) Hensley (Matter); his sister-in-law, Jane Snyder (Dennis); along with many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ida (Miller) Matter and Lester Matter; his twin brother, Fred Matter; his brother, Franklin Matter; and his sisters, Florence Moyer and Connie Shatto, all of whom he is now reunited with in eternal peace.
Teddy’s strength, humor, steady faith, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on not only in the lessons he taught, but in the family he cherished and the friendships he nurtured throughout his life.
Memorial Services will be held at The Enola First Church of God, 9 Sherwood Dr, Enola PA 17025, on Thursday March 5th, 2026. Visitation is from 1:30PM-3PM with the service starting promptly at 3PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes all donations be made in Teddys honor to Northeast Fire & Rescue, 202 Third St, Enola PA 17025.
The Sullivan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Matter family.
One memory on “Teddy Raymond Matter”
A man who made such a positive impact on so many young lives over many decades shall be carried on in the most honorable way by many! The steadfast values that Ted never wavered from are a testament to believing in all that is right, and the dedication to doing your best, and being your best, at whatever it is that you’re focused on.
I played football for only one year under coach Matter’ s program as a young boy. While I certainly knew he had a no nonsense attitude which stuck with me back then, it was getting to know him a whole lot better many years later as an adult and colleague in the coaching world. I could go on and on here as so many others could as well. The community has lost an important human being that helped to shape the lives of so many. Coach Matter’ s lessons and values will live on in those lives, and be passed on to yet others through the years!
My wife and I extend our sincere condolences to Ted’s entire family! He, and you all have been in our prayers during this difficult time. May Ted now reside in the loving arms of our
Lord!