Donald O. Mathews, Sr.

Donald O. Mathews, Sr., (also known as “Brother Don”) a retired Gadsden County School Administrator from Wakulla County passed peacefully away at the age of 79 in the comfort of his home on Sunday, October 28th in Tallahassee, Florida. He was surrounded by loved ones and gospel music as he lost his battle to cancer.

Brother Don honorably served our country in the U.S. Army. He attended Florida A&M University where he obtained his Bachelors of Science and Masters of Education. He later applied his education and experience at the high-schools in Jefferson and Wakulla counties. Brother Don enjoyed spending time with his family, lifelong friends, and restoring ‘65 & ‘66 Ford Mustangs. He was especially happy when serving others through his gospel music ministry "SOUNDS OF FAITH" as a Radio Announcer/DJ sharing a mixture of traditional and contemporary gospel music. Since 1965 Brother Don hosted his “SOUNDS OF FAITH” gospel program over the airways in South Georgia & North Florida and most recently online.

Although Brother Don was recognized by various community service awards, plaques and certificates for his military, educational and professional accomplishments; some of his proudest moments were the birth of his children & grandchildren, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Ensound Entertainment, serving as Lieutenant Governor for Kiwanis International, Florida District, and the ability to support others (grilling his world famous BBQ ribs during family gatherings, providing shelter during a storm, or counseling loved ones with a mix of humor).

Brother Don is survived by his wife, Frankie Mathews; 3 children: Audrey (Charles Cooper), Donald Jr, and Brandi (Brian Sealey); 6 grandchildren, Turrel, Devin, Justin, Morgan, Bryce, and Braylon; a brother, Andre` F. Hackley; and 2 sisters, Delores Y. Mitchell and Gwendolyn E. Hackley McDaniel; 2 brother-in-laws that regarded him as a father, Michael Clay and Sam Coger and a host of loving family members, friends and neighbors.

Visitation will be from 5 - 7PM on Friday, November 2nd, at Culley’s on 1737 Riggins Rd. Graveside Services with full military honors will begin at 3:30PM on Saturday, November 3rd, at Culley’s at 700 Timberlane Rd. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial donations be made in honor of Mr. Donald Mathews, Sr. to the Big Bend Hospice, either online at www.bigbendhospice.org or by calling 850-878-5310.