HILLTOWNS — The Berne-Knox-Westerlo community is in mourning over the death of high school English teacher Philip H. Matthews III on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025 from complications related to brain cancer. 

Mr. Matthews, 50, had been an educator for 28 years and had “touched the lives of countless students,” according to his obituary. 

He also enjoyed sports, as both participant and spectator, it says. 

Mr. Matthews had earned All-American honors in cross country while he was an undergraduate at LeMoyne College. As an adult, he was a member of the Willow Street Running Club, and also skied competitively with the Hudson United Race Team. His favorite baseball team was the Boston Red Sox.

Mr. Matthews also enjoyed time outdoors hunting and fishing, and vacationed with his wife and son in Cape Cod and Maine, the obituary says. 

“Phil’s legacy of compassion, strength, leadership, resilience, passion for teaching, and love for his family and friends will continue to inspire all who knew him,” it says.

In a statement, BKW Superintendent Bonne Kane wrote that Mr. Matthews was an “integral member” of the school community, having been at the district for more than 20 years. 

“As we process this profound loss, we will undoubtedly share stories, memories, and the impact our friend Mr. Matthews had in our lives,” she said. “At BKW, we are a strong and giving community that helps one another during times of need. We will continue to look to one another during this time as we remember Mr. Matthews's influence on our school community.”

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Philip H. Matthews III is survived by his wife, Kara; his son, Philip; and his dog, Tucker. Matthews was preceded in death by his dog, Harley, whom his family says “he will surely meet again at the Rainbow Bridge.”

Mr. Matthews was the son of Jacqueline and Philip Matthews Jr. and brother of Kelly Matthews-White (John).

Calling hours will be held at Marra Funeral Home from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, March 17, located at 246 Remsen Street in Cohoes. The funeral will be held on March 18 at 10 a.m., at St. Mary’s Church, Crescent, located at 86 Church Hill Road in Waterford, New York.

Contributions may be made to Paul Smith’s College Nordic Ski Team, 7777 State Route 30, Paul Smith’s, NY 12903 from the following link, bit.ly/4h3mECc.