Joseph A. Mathews, age 79, a longtime Fairfield resident, beloved husband of Joan M. Balko Mathews, died February 20, 2010, at Bridgeport Hospital. Joe was born in Mount Clair, NJ, son of the late William J. and Helen Orzehoski Mathews, and spent his early years in Stamford, graduating from St. Basil's Prep, where he was awarded the English Gold Medal. He earned his Masters Degree in Education from Fairfield University and taught English for more than 50 years at several area schools; Fairfield Prep, Masuk High, Monroe, Hillcrest Junior High and Trumbull High Schools. Joe was presently teaching English as a second language at Bullard Havens Technical School, Bridgeport. Known and appreciated as an innovative and sensitive teacher, he readily imparted an enthusiasm for literature to everyone he taught. He was especially fond of New England writers such as Thoreau and the poet Robert Frost.  A man of gentle spirit and unassuming nature, he harbored a quick wit and refined sense of humor. Spare moments were spent in his vegetable garden or walking along the beach no matter the weather. In addition to his wife Joan, survivors include, his loving children, two sons, David Mathews and wife Donna of Bridgeport, and Thomas Mathews and wife Diane of Hamden, two daughters, Joanie Parker and husband Richard of Seattle, Barbara Grabowski and husband Anthony of Naugatuck, three brothers, Thomas Mathews of Paris France, Frank Mathews of Kingston, RI, and William Mathews of Woodbridge, four cherished grandchildren, Alex, Greg, and Emily Parker, and Joseph Grabowski, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 10:00am from the Redgate – Hennessy Funeral Home, Main Street and Gorham Place, Trumbull, and at 11:00am in Holy Cross Church, Fairfield, with a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery, Stamford. Friends may call Monday from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. To send online condolences please visit www. redgatehennessy.com