Charles Benton Mathews

Charles Mathews was born to Margaret and Charles Mathews on May 1, 1921 in Sidney Nebraska. Charlie grew up in Sidney and at an early age he started working on his uncle’s ranch being a true cowboy. He went on cattle drives and helped with the crops and all the animals. During this time he completed his education and graduated from high school. During the depression he worked for the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC). After completing work for the CCC he became a lineman for the telephone company. As World War II was raging, Charlie joined the U S Army in 1942. He was assigned to the 243rd Signal Operations Company due to his previous experience as a lineman. He served in 2 campaigns, North Africa and Italy. It was in Italy that Charlie met Myra Mae McGinney, the love of his life. Charlie and Myra were married for over 59 years when Myra passed away.

They were blessed with 3 boys, Larry and Jerry twins and the youngest Jim. Charlie and Myra lived in Nebraska for a little over a year. When the twins were about 6 months old Myra decided she had had enough of the cold weather. They packed up their belongings and the twins in a 1938 Buick and headed to warmer weather in Tyler Texas where they lived the remainder of their lives.

Charles was a man of many talents. After moving to Tyler he worked for the railroad. After that he became a Tyler policeman for 7 years. Again Charlie completely changed directions and went to work for George Shippy Motor Company then to King Chevrolet as a Service Writer. After several years he went to work at Waggoner Cadillac. During the time he worked for Waggoner Cadillac, LTV built a plant in Tyler where Charlie got the opportunity to work in the manufacturing division, which was short lived as the LTV plant closed shortly after it opened. Charlie returned to Waggoner Cadillac and continued to work there until he retired in 1983 as Assistant Shop Foreman. Charlie took early retirement at 62 as he wanted to spend more time with his family and especially his two grandchildren, Josh and Kelli who spent sixteen wonderful summers and holidays with Charlie, Myra and Jerry.

Charlie was also a member of the Smith County Sheriff’s Posse where he advanced to the rank of Captain. His love for his family, country, horses and friends was a priority in his life. Charlie would be the first to tell you that he had lived a long and very blessed life.

Charlie was preceded in death by his beloved, Myra and sons Jim and Jerry.

He is survived by son, Larry Mathews and wife Ann of Garland, grandson, Joshua Mathews of Rowlett, granddaughter, Kelli Mathews, of Garland, great grandson, Colton Sherman of Garland and sister, Margaret Arp (Little Sis) of Omaha Nebraska.

Funeral Services will be 2:00pm Saturday at Tyler Memorial Funeral Home with burial in Tyler Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dallas VNA Hospice Care.