Matthew Gus Gallins

Matthew Gus Gallins was born on February 14, 1956, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, a Valentine’s Day gift to his parents, Gus George Gallins and Athena Pappas Gallins, and to his three older sisters. He entered eternal rest on May 23, 2026. Matthew passed away peacefully at his home in Ocean Isle Beach, surrounded by his family.

Matthew will be remembered for his generous heart, joyful spirit, and the steadfast love he shared with those closest to him. A 1974 graduate of R.J. Reynolds High School, he went on to earn a degree in business from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1978.

An entrepreneur and successful businessman, Matthew built upon the legacy his father, Gus, and his Uncle John had begun with Gallins Vending Company, growing it into Gallins Foods, Inc. Under his leadership, the company expanded into restaurants, food service, and real estate holdings throughout the region. Matthew believed deeply in the value of integrity in business and lived by the simple principle of always delivering on his promises.

Matthew was deeply rooted in Winston-Salem, serving on the founding board of Southern Community Bank and generously supporting organizations such as The Centers for Exceptional Children, Second Harvest Food Bank, and many others that reflected his lifelong commitment to service and compassion.

Matthew found his truest joy on the water. Ocean Isle Beach was where he built lifelong friendships and spent his days doing what he loved most—bringing people together.

Matthew is survived by his beloved wife, Kimberly Kiser Gallins; his daughter, Vaughan Gilmore, and her husband, Matthew; and his son, Peter Matthew Gallins, and his wife, Lyndsy. He was a proud Papou to his cherished grandchildren, London and Kymeon Gilmore, and Michael and George Gallins. He is also survived by Eleanor Gay Dillard, the mother of his children.

He is also survived by his stepchildren, Lyndsey Alderman, Ryan Alderman (Lindsey), and Brandon Jacobs (Madison); their children, Owen Alderman, Bo Jacobs, and Cora Alderman; and his sisters, Penny Gallins, Vicki Fragakis, and Gussie Kroustalis and her husband, Alex. He is also survived by his nieces, Leni Caldwell, Athena Kroustalis, and Paula Manser; his nephews, Chris Noffsinger, Martin Noffsinger, and Gus Kroustalis, who adored their Uncle Matt; his godson, Gabriel Chrysson; his cousins; and countless friends who were like family. By every measure, he was a great man, and he will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, 955 Mercy Lane SE, Bolivia, NC 28422, or to the Dragonfly House Children’s Advocacy Center, 387 Valley Road, Mocksville, NC 27028.

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the family.