Valerie Matthews, Mother of Dave Matthews, Dies at 89

Valerie Matthews, mother of Dave Matthews Band lead singer Dave Matthews, passed away at the age of 89 on February 9 in her Charlottesville, Virginia home, after a decline in health due to natural causes and Alzheimer's disease. Dave and his siblings were at her bedside during her final moments, and her health issues prompted him to withdraw from a benefit concert for wildfire victims shortly before her death. Born in South Africa in 1935, Valerie was an architect and social activist, who faced significant personal tragedies, including the death of her husband John Matthews and her daughter Anne. Despite these hardships, she was remembered for her kindness and the joy she brought to her family, who gathered around her in her final days. Valerie is survived by her three children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Her obituary celebrated her resilience and deep appreciation for family and friendships.