John “Jack” Mathias was born October 3, 1941 to Olive (Braga) and Antone Mathias in Fall River, MA. He attended St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School in Jamaica Plains, MA. He graduated from DC High and then attended Mass Trades Night School to study drafting. He married the love of his life, Deborah (Cummings), in April 1963.
He was a man with many interests. Music, musicals, boats and history are just a few. He was a fiercely devoted fan of all the Boston/New England sports teams. His memory for stats was unmatched.
Jack was a man of principle and purpose, who absolutely loved his work serving the Navy for over 61 years. He began his career as an extraordinarily talented naval architect, specializing in arrangements at the Boston Navy Yard. He relocated to Virginia Beach in the 1970's and joined the Combatant Craft Division, where he focused on boat and combatant craft designs, ultimately serving as the first Boat Inventory Manager (BIM). Jack was a patriot, a friend, a colleague, and a mentor, freely giving of his vast knowledge and wisdom on all topics. His colleagues frequently and with great admiration referred to him as "Jack-ipedia." The primary focus of Jack's work never wavered from the guiding principle of setting the sailor up for success. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence and he will be greatly missed.
Dad/Jack passed on October 22, 2022. He was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Debbie of almost 60 years; his daughter, Karin Garrett and her husband Ben; his son, Michael and his wife Colleen; brother, Kenneth Mathiason; and 4 grandchildren, Ryan, Connor and Mary Grace Mathias, and Spencer Garrett.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to The Jimmy Fund or St. Vincent DePaul.
