Tributes

Roy Ellington Mathews was born on January 3, 1939, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Frank and Louella Burrell Mathews. At the age of seven, he moved to La Marque, Texas, where he would grow into a respected man of faith, service, leadership, and devotion to family and community. He attended Lincoln High School, where he met the love of his life, Loretta Mathews, in 1955. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1957 and later proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1962 as a prison guard. During his younger years, he was also known for his athletic ability, playing basketball for both Lincoln High School and the United States Marine Corps. On February 13, 1961, he married the love of his life, Loretta, and together they built a loving family and lasting legacy. They celebrated 65 years of marriage. From this union came two children: Robbyn Alexia and Patrice Mathews, who was their angel baby and passed at birth. A hardworking and dedicated provider, he worked for the Monsanto Plant in Chocolate Bayou from 1963 until 1993, where he served as a manager. Beyond his career, he devoted much of his life to mentoring and uplifting others. He coached Little League baseball in the 1980s, served as a Scout Leader for the Boy Scouts, and participated in two professional bowling teams from 1979 to 2010. His faith and community involvement were central to who he was. He served faithfully as a Deacon for 19 years, became involved with Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in 1997, and worked alongside Crime Stoppers, always striving to make a positive impact in the lives of others. He was a longtime member and past Worshipful Master of Pride of Hitchcock Masonic Lodge, presently, Amity Masonic Lodge #4 F & AM - Prince Hall Affiliation; and was a Sublime Prince 32nd Degree Mason, member of Winn Consistory #234. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 65 years, Loretta Mathews; his daughter, Robbyn Alexia; his granddaughter, Ravyn Johnson (Kerry Johnson); his great-grandchildren, Bayhli and Kroix Johnson; and his goddaughter, Fariece Joiner, along with a host of extended family members, friends, church family, and all whose lives he touched. His life was one of honor, faith, service, and love, and his legacy will continue to live on through the many people he inspired.

Tributes

Deacon Roy E. Mathews

January 3, 1939 - May 10, 2026