SOUTHERN SHORES — Robert Berry Matchette, 79, of Southern Shores, passed away at his home on December 10, 2023, while recovering from heart surgery he received in September.
He was born on August 30, 1944, in Bexar County, just outside of San Antonio, Texas, to James Clarke Matchette and Lucile (Berry) Matchette. His father’s career in the Army led the family to live in many places, including Germany, England, and Missouri. The family settled in Columbus, Georgia, where Robert graduated from Baker High School in 1962 as a National Merit Scholarship winner.
After receiving a BA from Emory University and an MA from Duke University, Robert began his career as an archivist at the National Archives of the United States in Washington, DC. For many years, he worked with pre-World War I military records, producing the microfilm publication of the Annual Reports of the War Department, 1822-1907. Robert was the chief editor and compiler of the 1995 edition of The Guide to Federal Records in the National Archives. When the National Archives opened a building in Maryland, Robert managed the safe transfer of records to the new location and performed similar duties during the renovation of the National Archives Building in downtown Washington.
For many years, Robert’s enjoyment of running things led him to direct the outdoor training program of Webelos leaders for the Boy Scout’s National Capitol Area.
Robert met his wife Teresa Foucault at the National Archives. They were married for nearly 48 years and are the parents of a son, James, and a daughter, Anne.
After retirement, Robert and Teresa moved to Outer Banks, the place of many happy vacations over the years. Robert served with the Friends of the Outer Banks History Center from 2013 to 2021.
Robert is predeceased by his parents, as well as an older half-brother, Patrick. He is survived by his wife and children as well as a brother, Ralph, of Bethlehem, Georgia.
The family is honoring Robert’s wishes for cremation. No services are planned. The family wants to thank the staff of Adoration Home Care and Hospice for their loving support during this sad time. In memory of Robert, contributions to the Beach Food Pantry or any local charity would be appreciated.
Please share condolences with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.
