JoAnne Christenson Matson, known to her friends as Penny, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2015, surrounded by family. She was born in Hilliard, Florida, on her grandmother's farm in 1932. She grew up in North Florida and then moved to New York City where she worked for AT&T. While living in New York, she met college student and aspiring Brooklyn Dodger, Tony Matsikoudes. They fell in love and were married in Vero Beach, Florida, during the Dodgers spring training. Together they decided not only join their lives but legally combine their names to establish the Matson family. They were blessed with three sons: Tony Jr., Mark, and Stephen. Alongside her husband, Penny helped start and run a series of successful businesses in the United States and in the Bahamas, including a chain of pizza restaurants and a mail delivery service. She and her husband, Tony, loved to travel and they shared a great sense of adventure. Together they traveled the world and lived in various places in the states until retiring in St. Augustine to enjoy life on the beach. She was a longtime member of the Xi Zeta Alpha service sorority where she held a number of offices over the many years. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, doting and generous grandear, and loyal friend to many. Penny is survived by her sons, Mark and Stephen, her daughter-in-laws, Jill and Lynne, and her six grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Tony, and her son, Tony Jr. Penny had a gentle and sweet spirit and she made the world a better place with her bright smile and huge heart. She will be greatly missed by all. There will be a private burial for immediate family. A reception for friends and family will be held on January 31st from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 pm in the Sanddollar III Clubhouse. 8050 A1A South St Augustine, FL In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable contribution to the Robbystrong Fund at www.giveforward.com. MATSON Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com. Published by Florida Times-Union on Jan. 23, 2015