Fundraiser Established For Couple Who Lost Home In Christmas Eve Fire

BENSON — A GoFundMe fundraiser has been established to support Roy Lee and Brenda Matthews after their home was destroyed in a Christmas Eve house fire on Elevation Road outside of Benson.

The fundraiser was created by their daughter-in-law, Christina Howard, to help the couple recover after losing their home and personal belongings in the fire. According to the GoFundMe page, all donations will go directly to Roy Lee and Brenda to assist with purchasing essential items and covering immediate needs as they plan their next steps.

“They lost their home and everything they worked their whole life for in a tragic house fire on Christmas Eve,” Howard wrote. “Any support would be greatly appreciated in their time of need.”

The fire was reported Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 24, and drew a response from multiple fire departments, including West Johnston, Benson, Elevation, and 50-210. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze, but the home was declared a total loss.

Johnston County Fire Marshal Travis Johnson said the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Preliminary information indicated the fire may have originated near the front porch area.

Family members say Roy Lee and Brenda Matthews are well known in the community for their generosity, kindness, and willingness to help others over the years.

“They have done so much for others throughout their lifetime,” the GoFundMe page states.