Joseph Gerald Matli

Joseph Gerald Matli went home to be with his lord on Tuesday August 19th, 2025 surrounded by his family. Joe was born in Prescott, AZ on February 13, 1933 to Joseph and Dorothy Matli. Joe graduated from Prescott High School in 1951 lettering in football and track. It was here that he met and married his high school sweetheart Janet Barbee. They were married on December 28th, 1953. He was so fortunate to spend the next seventy two years with the love of his life and his best friend. Joes worked for the county after high school and later was hired by Arizona Public Service. He had a great career with APS and retired in 1990. When summertime came around, Joe enjoyed playing softball with all his friends and participated for many years as one of the world famous Smoki Snake Dancers. Joe was an avid outdoorsman, who loved to hunt and fish. He and Janet spent years pulling their trailer seeing the country or just camping with friends. When returning home he would always say “It’s good to be home in good ole Prescott”. Joe was infamous for his backyard fish fries and barbecues, which were so well attended that they nearly had to close their road. Joe was proceeded in death by his sister Dorothy Stuart (Calvin). Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years Janet Matli, daughter Cheryl Matli of Victoria, BC., son Jerry Matli (Kathy) of Prescott., grandchildren Lawren Matli, Christine Cereghini (Tony) and Nicholas Matli (Sarah). Joes had one great grandchild Arlo Cereghini (Joe’s Twin), nieces and nephews Linda Dowden (Brad), Rhonda Thacker, Tom Stuart (Vicki), Donney Speck (Greg), Steven Barbee (Susie), Elizabeth Coleman (Billy) and Jimmy Barbee (Debbie).

There will be a celebration of life at the Prescott Community Church on September 20th at 11am.