Bobby Gene Mathis

Bobby was born on February 12, 1939, in Mayfield, Kentucky, to Everett Lee and Beatrice Opal (née Rodgers) Mathis. He spent his early childhood in Kentucky until the age of five, when his family moved to Michigan, where he would make his home for the remainder of his life.

On April 27, 1957, Bobby married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Wilson, in Ringgold, Georgia. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their family, making their home first in Detroit, then Warren, and ultimately Sterling Heights, where they had lived since 1988. Nearly 70 years of marriage brought them a lifetime of memories, love, laughter, and family.

Bobby was a proud and hardworking tool and die maker where he made parts for the automotive industry. He took great pride in his work and genuinely loved what he did. He was a dedicated provider who believed in doing whatever was necessary to take care of his family, and his strong work ethic was a testament to the kind of man he was.

Outside of work, Bobby found his greatest joys in the outdoors and in sharing his interests with others. He loved hunting, fishing, birds, and nature. He especially enjoyed fishing for walleye on the Detroit River and was a longtime member of the Lake St. Clair Walleye Association. He made his own fishing flies and built birdhouses, always finding something to create with his hands. Some of his happiest times were spent visiting his daughter and son-in-law’s farm in Big Rapids.

Bobby also had a generous spirit and a natural ability to connect with people. He could talk to just about anyone and never seemed to meet a stranger. He served as a Boy Scout leader and enjoyed taking the Scouts camping and helping them experience the outdoors he loved so much. His warm personality, easy conversation, and genuine interest in others made him someone people remembered fondly.

A man of Methodist faith, Bobby was also deeply proud of his country and loved the United States. Above all, he was devoted to his family. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, neighbor, and a cherished presence in the lives of many who considered him family.

Bobby is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Patricia Mathis; his children, Deborah “Debbie” (Dale Sr.) Buck and James (Sheila) Mathis; daughter-in-law, Sheilagh Mathis; grandchildren, Patricia Buck, Amy (Alexander Kwapis) Mathis, Katy (David) Donovan, and Dale Buck Jr.; great-grandchildren, Dylan Buck, Delilah Buck, and Keira Donovan; as well as many additional grandchildren-at-heart who held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Beatrice Mathis; his son, Bobby Allen Mathis; and his grandson, Jacob Mathis.

Memorial visitation for Bobby will be held from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM on Friday, August 21, 2026 at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honors Bobby's memory may plant a tree in his name, as he loved trees, forests, and nature. A link to plant a tree in a Michigan forest in his memory is included below.