Eleanor Seppi Mathis

Eleanor Lillian Seppi Mathis passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at the remarkable age of 101. Born on January 6, 1924, in Mountain Iron, Minnesota, Eleanor was a proud first-generation American, the daughter of Matt and Anttila Seppi, Finnish immigrants who instilled in her a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience, and family.

As a young woman, Eleanor answered the call to serve her country during World War II. She enlisted in the United States Navy as part of the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), attaining the rank of Petty Officer Third Class and serving as a Teleman in the American Theater. Her service was recognized with the World War II Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. Eleanor remained quietly proud of her role in history, embodying a generation defined by duty and perseverance.

Eleanor later made her home in San Diego, California, where she built a life rooted in devotion to family and community. She married Charles Hudson Mathis, a Staff Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps who served during the Korean War. Together, they shared a strong and enduring partnership grounded in mutual respect, service, and love. Charles Hudson Mathis preceded her in death in 1979.

She was a devoted mother to her son, Gary Lee Mathis, and her daughter, Patricia Lynn Mathis. Eleanor’s greatest joy came from her family, and her legacy lives on through her grandchildren, Heather Mathis Culver and Laura Mathis, and her great-granddaughters, Jayden Skye, Addison Taylor, Arya Starr, and Willow Storm. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Gary Lee Mathis, who passed away in August 2025. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Emilia, Ilmar, Eino, Sylvia, Toivo, and Wilho.

Eleanor was honored alongside her husband at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, a lasting tribute to their shared commitment to service and country. Her life spanned more than a century of profound change, yet she remained steady in her values—family, faith, humility, and quiet strength.

She will be remembered for her grace, resilience, and the deep love she held for those around her. Eleanor leaves behind not only generations of family who cherish her memory, but also a story of service, sacrifice, and steadfast love that will continue to inspire.