He was born to Nicholas Yancey and Clara Thomas Mathis in St. Charles, South Carolina. He was baptized at Trinity Methodist Church in Sumter, South Carolina.
He married Joyce A. Kellner on June 7, 1958. Together they had three children, Denise, Sally, and Thomas. Gerald was a proud member of the Air Force and the family eventually made their home in San Antonio, Texas. He spent most of his life estimating in the home building industry. Gerald was a thrill seeker and loved riding roller coasters, especially with his grandchildren at Sea World. He was an avid Spurs and Clemson Tigers fan. He was also an active member of St Pius X Catholic Church for over 55 years.
He is survived by the love of his life for 67 years, Joyce A. Mathis. Other survivors include his children, Sally (Jeff) Burkett and Thomas Mathis (Tina); Grandchildren, Hunter (Katie) Miller, Jeffrey Burkett, and Mallory (Mathew) Keller.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas Yancey and Clara Thomas Mathis; Brothers Marion, Nicholas, and Thomas Mathis; a daughter, Denise Mathis Miller; great-grandson, Kashton Edwin Keller; and a special aunt, Sallie Thomas.
The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 26, 2025, at St. Pius X Catholic Church 3303 Urban Crest Dr. San Antonio, Texas 78209 followed by a rosary.
A Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, December 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church
Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Jeff Burkett, Jeffrey Burkett, Matthew Keller, Albert Kellner, Keith Kellner, and Hunter Miller
In lieu of flowers the family would like for you to donate in his name to the St. Pius X Capital Campaign https://spxsa.church/donate or a charity of your choosing.
