Brent Edward Mathis

Brent Edward Mathis was born on September 20, 1950 in Chicago, Illinois to Vivian and Clair Mathis. To that union were born four children. Brent graduated from Hirsch Metropolitan High School (class of 1968) and pursued additional studies at University of Illinois at Chicago. He went on to work at such places as Sam Zell, the National PTA and later held numerous positions at United Airlines, where he retired after 25 years of service. Brent’s love for Bible truth was sparked at 23 years of age. He dedicated his life to Jehovah on November 24, 1973 symbolized that dedication through water baptism. He took living up to his dedication very seriously and was soon a ministerial servant in the South Shore Congregation on Chicago’s south side. Brent soon met the love of his life, Cathy Dotson, and they were married on January 24, 1981. Their early years of marriage were spent travelling extensively together. Brent loved to travel. They also became immediate spiritual companions - he served as an elder in the South Shore congregation, while Cathy served as a regular pioneer. To this union was born their only child and Brent’s pride and joy, Chloé Elise Mathis. The love that he had for Chloé came second only to his relationship with Jehovah. Brent set the finest example for his family of what it means to be a spiritual head and provider. Despite chronic kidney failure, Brent maintained his zeal for the ministry and kept up with his spiritual activities. When Brent was not busy tending to his spiritual duties, he loved watching movies with Cathy, playing his guitars, and listening to a variety of music - including jazz and classic rock. He was also very proud of being called “Poppy” by his granddaughter, Kyla Elise Mathis. Most of all, Brent enjoyed going to the lake with Chloé, spending hours talking, and enjoying Jehovah’s creations in the park with Kyla. On Wednesday, December 5, 2012 Brent fell asleep in death. Brent was preceded in death by his parents as well as his grandmother, Thelma Graham (“Cookie”). Left behind to cherish many wonderful memories and rejoice in the hope of everlasting life, are his beloved and devoted wife of 31 years, Cathy Mathis; daughter, Chloé Elise; granddaughter, Kyla Elise; stepmother, Lizzie; two brothers, Carl (Leatrice) and Michael; three sisters, Diane (Jay), Dana and Claire; brother-in-law, Dennis (Joyce); four sisters-in-law, Cynthia, Patricia, Ernestine and Joann; and a host of dearly loved nieces, nephews and friends.

Tributes

Brent Edward Mathis

September 20, 1950 - December 5, 2012