Fri Feb 21 15:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Dave Matthews’ Mother, Valerie Matthews, Dies at 89 After Alzheimer’s Battle
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – Valerie Anne Matthews, mother of renowned musician Dave Matthews, passed away peacefully at her home in Charlottesville, Virginia, on Sunday, February 9th, at the age of 89. Her death follows a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Matthews, a former architect and passionate advocate for social justice, is survived by her three children – Dave Matthews, Peter Matthews, and Jane Matthews – along with six grandchildren and a great-grandson. She was surrounded by family in her final days, according to her online obituary.
“It was a time of great sadness but also one of joy, filled with laughter and music and stories,” the obituary reads. “Val’s kindness, graciousness, and humor shone through to the end.”
The obituary details a life filled with both triumph and tragedy. After immigrating to the United States from South Africa, Matthews faced the loss of her first husband and later, her daughter Anne. Despite these hardships, she remained dedicated to her family, even taking custody of Anne’s children after her untimely death.
Her unwavering commitment to social justice and environmental causes is also highlighted in the obituary, describing her as a vocal activist who consistently used her voice to speak out against injustice. In her later years, she was cared for at home by a devoted team of caregivers.
Dave Matthews’ recent cancellation of a FireAid benefit concert was attributed to a “critical illness in the family,” which was later revealed to be the rapid decline in Valerie’s health. The family has expressed gratitude for the care provided to her during her illness. A private service is planned for family and close friends.
First Piper 