Easley – Claude Meadors “Mat” Herndon, 85, husband of Melissa Jane Durham Herndon, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, February 11, 2021.
Mat was born in Abbeville, SC, the son of the late Edward Herndon and Corrine Bonds Sharpe. He was a graduate of Calhoun Falls High School and then served in the United States Army. After his service, he attended Newberry College where he lettered in baseball and basketball. He later received his Master’s degree in education from Furman University and studied at both Clemson University and The University of South Carolina.
A lifelong educator, Mat taught and coached at Pickens High School, Abbeville High School, and Byrnes High School prior to serving as principal of Pickens Junior High School. He went on to be the director of secondary education for the School District of Pickens County and retired as assistant superintendent in 1988.
Mat was a faithful and active member of Easley First Baptist Church. He served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher and Sunday school superintendent. He enjoyed singing in the Heart Song Choir, volunteering at the church-sponsored basketball camp, and delivering Meals on Wheels.
Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Jane Herndon, daughters, Lisa Fowler (Chantz) of Pendleton, Betts Batson (Keith) of Powdersville, Marie Gardner (Jonathan) of Greenville and a son, David Herndon (Julie) of Lexington, nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Mat was predeceased by infant twins, two sisters, and a brother.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 AM Monday, February 15, 2021 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home with the Reverend Doctor John Adams officiating. Entombment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park with military honors.
Due to the current COVID-19 Pandemic, face masks will be required for attendance and social distancing will be practiced.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardHillcrest.com
The family would like to thank Alana, Angie, and the staff at Open Arms Hospice for their compassionate care of Mat over the past five months.
Memorials may be made to Easley First Baptist Church, Miracle Hill or Open Arms Hospice.
The family is at the home
Dillard Funeral Home
Pickens, SC
