Matthew W. Thomas, 81, of Bethlehem died peacefully Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at Lehigh Valley Hospice, Allentown. Born in Bethlehem, PA, raised from age 12 in Bucks County, PA, he was the son of the late William F. Thomas and the late Esther (Feist). He was the loving husband of Doretta Jane (Tushingham) sharing 57 years of marriage and the beloved father of his son William.

Matt was a graduate of Palisades High School, where he lettered in multiple sports. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry from Penn State University, and was a member of Tau Phi Delta Fraternity. He would later attend American University in Washington D.C. for a Master's Degree in Finance. He pursued a career in finance and commercial banking, originally in the Washington DC Metro Area, before returning with his family to Bethlehem in the early 1980s. Matt spent nearly 50 years in the banking industry in the Lehigh Valley and New Jersey and also served as a board member and volunteer to local companies in service to the community. He enjoyed traveling, sports, and being with friends and neighbors. Most of all, he loved his time at home with his family and his pets.

Survivors: Matt is survived by his wife, Doretta; son: William of Bethlehem; sister: Malvina Rau and husband David of Maine; nieces: Kirsten, Gretchen, Allison; nephews: Brandon, Rick, Tim; and many cousins.

Services: Private services at the convenience of the family. Matt's services have been entrusted to the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Matt's name to Gift of Memory, Lehigh Valley Hospice. Please write donations out to Lehigh Valley Health Network and send via mail to Office of Philanthropy- PO. Box 1883, Allentown, PA 18105.