Michael Lee Mathews

Michael Lee Mathews, 64, passed away on June 1, 2026, after a very long, hard fought battle with frontotemporal dementia. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, leadership, generosity, and unwavering belief in others.

Born on August 4, 1961, in Amarillo, Texas, Michael was the son of Walter Elmer Mathews and Patsy Ruth (Hall) Mathews. Throughout his life, he demonstrated a remarkable combination of determination, compassion, and vision that inspired countless people.

On March 21, 1987, Michael married Karen Sue (Davis) Mathews. Together they built a loving family and shared nearly 40 years of marriage. Their daughter, Taylor Nicole Mathews, was born on December 15, 1993, and their son, Christian Michael Mathews, was born on May 7, 2004. Family was at the center of Michael’s life, and he took great pride in the people he loved.

Professionally, Michael was a respected businessman whose work in acquisitions and mergers reflected his strategic mind, leadership abilities, and relentless work ethic. Beyond his business career, he achieved the distinguished rank of 8th Degree Black Belt in martial arts and trained various military groups, sharing his knowledge, discipline, and commitment to excellence with others.

Michael had a rare gift for seeing potential in people. He often believed in others more than they believed in themselves and encouraged them to pursue goals they never thought possible. He was known for his persistence and enthusiasm, especially when inviting others to participate in opportunities, events, or causes he cared about. “No” was rarely the end of the conversation for Michael, because he genuinely wanted others to experience the same possibilities and blessings he saw for them.

His faith was a guiding force throughout his life. Michael was deeply involved in the church plant of Edmond Community Church, where he faithfully served and helped build a strong foundation for the congregation and its mission. His commitment to serving God and others left a lasting impact on his church family and community.

Michael cherished spending time with his beloved dog, Duke, who was a loyal companion and he loved very much.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Elmer Mathews and Patsy Ruth (Hall) Mathews. He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen Sue Mathews; his daughter, Taylor Nicole Mathews; his son, Christian Michael Mathews; and many extended family members, friends, colleagues, students, and fellow church members whose lives were touched by his generosity, wisdom, and encouragement.

Michael’s legacy lives on in the countless people he inspired to believe in themselves, work hard, pursue excellence, and trust in God’s purpose for their lives. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.