Lewis Larkin Mathews

Lewis Larkin Mathews, 101, of Crossett, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.  He was born on December 12, 1922, to his parents, Lewis and Mary Minnie Coffman Mathews. 

At an early age Lewis learned about hard work.  He farmed for Charlie Woods until 1961 then became a pulpwood hauler for many years until eventually retiring at age sixty-two so he could hunt and fish more.  Lewis was an avid outdoorsman.  Fishing was his passion and if there was enough water to get a hook wet, he was fishing.

A devoted husband, Lewis's love for his bride of sixty-five years knew no bounds. He remained faithfully by her side for 2 1/2 years until her passing, a testament to the depth of his commitment and the strength of their bond.

Known for his captivating storytelling, Lewis also had an infectious laughter, and a mischievous sense of humor. As a jokester and prankster, he delighted in bringing smiles to the faces of those around him.

A hard worker by nature, Lewis approached every task with determination and grit, never shying away from challenges. Yet, amidst his dedication to his work, he never failed to share his warmth and generosity with others, especially his grandchildren who held a special place in his heart.  He was known affectionately by many nicknames—Candy Man, Uncle Hot Dog, Hog Head, and his favorite, Pa.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Marie Cash Mathews; two children, Brenda Joyce Mathews and Bobby Lewis Mathews; nine siblings, and a special daughter-in-law, Bonnie Mathews.

He leaves behind one daughter, Louise Mathews Hollis (Benji); and one son, Michael Lewis Mathews both of Crossett; along with two sisters, Mary Bell Ricks and Mary Frances Hennington both of Portland, AR; two granddaughters, Neva Mathews, and Whitney King (Zach); and two great-grandchildren, Brayden and Chris Hill.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 27th, at Promise Land Missionary Baptist Church, 765 Ashley Rd 70, in Hamburg, AR, with Pastor Josh Luellen, officiating, followed by interment at Lick Prairie Cemetery under the direction of Medders Funeral Home of Crossett.  Pallbearers are David Jones, David Walker, Zach King, Kent Kilcrease, Frankllin Ricks, and Henry Mathews.  Honorary pallbearers are Brayden and Chris Hill.

Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., Friday, at Medders Funeral Home, 1564 Hwy 52 W, in Crossett.

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