Vinest Matte Jr.

Vinest Matte, Jr. was the son of the late Vinest and Marie Mier Matte and was one of eight bothers and sisters. Vinest was known by his family as “Jr” and “Matt” by his friends. He was a “Cajun” from south Louisiana and loved his Cajun culture and foods. Vinest was a U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam Era and retired as a Chief Petty Officer. He traveled the world serving our country. Having been a “Hull Technician” (welder) in the Navy, he went on to work in the field of ship maintenance and welding after his Navy Retirement. He enjoyed fishing with his buddies as a member of the Lake Murray Seniors Bass Club in Prosperity, SC.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Gale (Messer) Matte; son, Alvin Rodriquez (Michelle); daughters, Kelly Usry (David), Andrea Rue (Jason), Kim Byas; and stepsons, David Messer, Bobby Messer (Daniell), and Chuck Messer (Beth). Vinest is also survived by 10 grandchildren; a brother, John Matte; sisters, Rose Cormier, Bertha Gallet, and Anna Mae Moreno; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

The service for Vinest will be held at 11 o'clock, Wednesday, September 4th at Milton Shealy Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to the service from 10 until 11 o'clock. A private family burial with full military honors will follow in Fort Jackson National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society by following the link below.