Thomas Randolph Mattison

Thomas Randolph Mattison, 76, died April 9, 2026. Born May 10, 1949, in Durham, North Carolina, Thomas was the son of Myron Duane and Elizabeth (Weaver) Mattison. He spent most of his early years in Lubbock, Texas, and graduated from Lubbock High School. He went on to earn a B.A. in Psychology and Zoology from the University of Texas in 1971, a Ph.D. in Behavioral Genetics Psychology in 1972, and his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio in 1976. He completed his residency at Duke University Medical Center in Anatomical and Clinical Pathology in 1980, then returned to Lubbock to practice pathology—bringing to his life’s work a steady resilience, careful thought, and a faithful sense of purpose.

Tom served with distinction in numerous leadership roles throughout his medical career, including Director of Pathology and Clinical Laboratory at Medical Diagnostic Laboratories; Director of Laboratories and Chairman of Pathology at St. Mary’s Hospital; Director of Southwest Clinical Laboratories; and Chief of Pathology and Director of Laboratory at Methodist Hospital. Over the years, he also served as Medical Director for many other facilities, earning the respect and gratitude of colleagues and communities alike through his devoted service and kind-hearted presence. He retired in 1999, but his commitment to his profession and to family drew him back: in 2004, Tom and his son, Michael Trae, opened Mattison Pathology in Lubbock. In 2007, they opened another laboratory in Dallas, where his son, Tanner Layne, joined the practice—now known as Avero Diagnostics. Tom retired from Avero Diagnostics in 2016. After his second retirement, he and his wife, Patti, moved to Austin, Texas.

Beyond his professional life, Tom embraced the world with an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for time well spent with those he loved. He enjoyed playing golf with Patti at Barton Creek Country Club, and travel was often happily paired with another round along the way. Maui held a special place in his heart; a favorite destination visited many times. He also loved watching the Longhorns, the Rangers, and the Dallas Cowboys—simple pleasures that became meaningful traditions shared with family. Even in quiet moments, Tom’s thoughtfulness shone through sitting outside with a glass of wine, watching hummingbirds, clouds drifting by, and the beauty of the sunset.

Tom’s sense of adventure also took to the skies. He earned his pilot’s license in 1988, and though he gave up flying in 1994, deciding he preferred to sit back and let someone else take the controls—the wonder of flight remained part of the life he lived with curiosity and calm resolve.

To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Chief,” a title that reflected not only affection, but the steady, beloved presence he held in their lives.

Tom is survived by his wife, Patti Mattison; step son Tobin Davis, his wife Amy, and their children Turner and Emor, son Michael Trae Mattison, his wife Jennifer Mattison, and their children Reese, Tucker, and Tripp; son Tanner Layne Mattison, his wife Stephanie Mattison, and their daughter Laynie; son Trent Randolph Mattison, his wife April Mattison, and their daughters Mckinley and Reagan; and sister Robbie Cottie, her husband Robert Cottie, and their daughters Marisa and Kristen.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Myron D. Mattison Sr.; his mother, Elizabeth (Weaver) Mattison; and his brother, Myron Duane Mattison.

Tom’s life was marked by devotion—to his family, to his calling, and to the quiet, enduring values that guided him. He will be remembered with respect and lasting gratitude, and he will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home, 5416 Parkcrest Dr., Austin, Tx 78731.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to: Silverado Memory Care, 5200 A Davis Lane, Austin, Tx 78749.