April 9, 1928~ April 18, 2026 (age 98)
With heavy hearts and profound appreciation for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Opal C. Matchen on April 18, 2026, at the age of 98. Born on April 9, 1928, in the warm embrace of Alabama, Opal was the cherished daughter of the late Albert Culberson and Nora Minter Culberson. Her life was a testament to resilience, love, and dedication, qualities she inherited from her beloved parents and carried with her throughout her days.
Opal’s journey was one of love and family. She was blessed with a devoted marriage to her husband, Elba H. Matchen, with whom she shared a beautiful life and raised two sons, David E. Matchen and Kenneth R. Matchen (Margie). Together, Opal and Elba nurtured a loving home, instilling in their children the values of kindness and integrity.
Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she was the proud grandmother of four grandchildren: Paul Matchen (Jodie), David Matchen, Jr., Kenneth Matchen, Jr. (Amanda), and Dana M. Crocker (Clay). Her legacy continues through her seven great-grandchildren: Camden Crocker, Alex Crocker, Olivia Matchen, Parker Matchen, Jacob Matchen, Henry Matchen, and Mia Matchen, who will forever remember her warmth and wisdom. Opal’s love extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many nieces and nephews who held her dear.
Opal was predeceased by her husband, Elba; her parents, Nora and Albert; her siblings, Roberta Carver, Gaynelle Milam, Zora Ann Denty, Benny Culberson and Caroline Culberson; and her great-grandchild, Vivian Matchen. Though she has left this world, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her in return.
Professionally, Opal was dedicated to her work at A&P, where she spent many years contributing her skills and passion. Her commitment to her work was rivaled only by her dedication to her faith. She was a long-standing and active member of the First Baptist Church of Opelika, where she found a community of faith and friendship that sustained her for many years until she could no longer attend.
Opal’s life will be celebrated at a graveside service on April 22, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Garden Hills Cemetery with a visitation being held from 12:30-1:30 at the funeral home. It is here that family and friends will gather to honor a remarkable woman whose life was a blessing to all who knew her. As we bid farewell to Opal, we remember her not in sorrow but with gratitude for the love and memories she leaves behind. Her life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of family, and the beauty of a life lived in faith.
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