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Yuba City, California

Gary Mathis Obituary

Gary Wayne (Big Dog) Mathis Forever riding free Age 43 yrs, a loving man, dedicated father and son. Gary was a recology employee, tragically taken from us on June 28, 2011, in a traffic accident while completing the end of his work day. He is preceded on his new adventure by his big brother Frederick, his notorious aunt Shirley and uncle David Mcpherson and his grandparents. He is survived and cherished by Pheona, his 11yr old daughter, parents Gloria and Orval Mathis; beloved by his twin sisters, Tamra Straling, & Sandra Cox. Heart and hero to his girlfriend Becky Haney and her daughter Ashley; backyard buddy to his crazed 2 yr old black lab, Lilly; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, but he was especially close to his aunt Sue and uncle Ron Gaunt; aunts Gennette Ferguson, and Barbara Anderson, uncle Doyle Mathis , cousins Ken and Danny Mathis, Mark Mcpherson, Ron and Jennifer Tortorici, Ben Gaunt, Scott, Michael and Brian Ringler. He treasured his best friends Jason and Jennifer Estes and their kids; his riding buddies Ryan and Phil, his RC hobby friends, and his recology family. He graduated from El Camino high school and then pursued truck driving school. He was employed at Swift Trucking Company, Silverado landscaping Co. And Recology. His hobbies were RC cars, his collection of miniature motorcyles and most of all, he was looking forward to the warm weather so he could hit the open road on his Harley. A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 13th from 4 to 7pm at Ullrey Memorial Chapel, 817 Almond St, Yuba City. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, july 16th at 10am at Church of the Nazarene, 600 N. George Washington Blvd, Yuba City with a reception to follow at gary and Becky' s home, 1701 Finch Court, Yuba City. An account for the benefit of his daughter, Pheona, has been set up at schools credit union. A memorial biker run and BBQ to benefit Pheona is planned for August 13th, please contact Crystal for more information (530) 635- 3034. Send Condolences to www.appealdemocrat.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Appeal Democrat from Jul. 9 to Jul. 10, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Mathis

Sponsored by Mom.

Not sure what to say?





August 24, 2013

I miss you so much. I think about you all the time. I love you xxoo

Audra Straling

February 15, 2012

Thinking and loving you always Uncle. You are a big part of my heart,everyday I keep giving a little away to you and I feel your smile and goofy laughter. The sky is brighter with you in it. <3 Your Niece

Gary's graduation

Barbara Anderson

February 14, 2012

Becky Haney

August 28, 2011

My Dearest Gary, it has been 2 months now and it seems like yesterday but it also seems so long ago since I was able to hug and kiss my best friend and love of my life, I miss you so much and I love you. See you in my dreams, Love forever, Becky

sonya escobar

August 15, 2011

Hey Pheona,this is Shauns (escobar)mom, sonya. I am soo sorry you are having to go t hrough this. Keep your head up high and know your dad is always in your heart and looking down from up above. I just found out about this yesterday and have had difficulty with my emotions today about what you must feel. It's amazing all the love you have around you ! Sending lots of hugs your way! You are a special girl. I only talked to your dad on occasions but the impression I got was he was an awsome dad and he loved you very much! Take care sweetie!

Pheona Mathis in the Gary Mathis memorial run

Barbara Anderson

August 14, 2011

In memory of her dad.
Sent for Pheona Mathis.
Photo taken at Gary Mathis memorial run.

Photo taken by Gary's aunt Barb.

AUNT BARBARA ANDERSON

August 8, 2011

A PRAYER FROM HEAVEN
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
Remember you're not going.....you're coming here to (JOIN) me.

(author) Ruth Ann Mahaffey ©Copyright 1998

SENT FOR OUR DEAR GARY
~

Theressa Jackson

August 8, 2011

Gary, first Fred now you. Freddy was my knight in shining armor and you were the big, quiet hero. Rick and I can't believe you are gone. Our love and prayers go out to the whole family.

Theressa and Rick

Tammy Straling

July 28, 2011

Gary, This is your big sis BABABA, I love you with all my heart. I wish you were here with us. It is so empty without you coming in with your big smile and mocha with seven shots of rasberry!! I used to take a sip when you weren't looking. :) I don't know how I am going to get through this life without any of my brothers. I am very sad, and I miss you.
I love you for eternity!!
Tammy

Audra Straling

July 19, 2011

Oh Uncle, you were a great man and a stoic man. I have so many fond memories, riding around in your cool truck with all those speakers bumpin poison and def leppard. Playing duck hunt in your room with your cool rock posters, wrestling,getting in trouble. You, fred and aunty sandy all give me something to model for my own nieces and nephews. I will hold you in my heart and my humor forever. Those brown eyes live on in your daughter and I see your light in her (stubborn, witty, playful...stubborn hehe) I know you are there with the rest of our family and we will see you again, in the mean time, guard our hearts with your humor and dedicating love. Xoxo Your Niece

chastidy burgess

July 16, 2011

i just want to say i will always love him and i know in heaven looking down at all of us and hope everyone will miss him so thats his life

GIDDYING UP AT THE DRAFT HORSE SHOW

SANDRA COX

July 14, 2011

GARY WITH MARK'S BABY REAGAN

SANDRA COX

July 14, 2011

TAKING PHEONA TO SEE SANTA

SANDRA COX

July 14, 2011

GAR GAR HELPING MOVE FURNITURE

SANDRA COX

July 14, 2011

DAD AND GARY "PIT MASTERS"

SANDRA COX

July 14, 2011

GARY WATCHING YOU :)

SANDRA COX

July 13, 2011

GARY WITH MARK,AUNTIE AND FAMILY

SANDRA COX

July 13, 2011

TWIN B, GARY, TWIN A

SANDRA COX

July 13, 2011

Barbara Anderson

July 13, 2011

Dearest Gary,
I still remember you as the little boy in this picture. You always had a big smile for everyone. You grew up to be fine young man that we were very proud of. You were always willing to help anyone that needed it. They didn’t have to ask; you just jumped right in and did what needed to be done. If someone just needed a hug, you just knew it and you were there. We are so blessed to have known you. Lots of Love. You’re Aunt Barb

Dear Gloria and Orval,
Sandy and Tammy and Pheona
I am so sorry. There are no words that will make the hurt stop or make the emptiness go away, just know I am here for you. Our families have a bond that will last forever. I am only a phone call away if I can do anything to help you. Lots of Love Barb.

Gary and Brian about 1972

Gary Mathis

July 13, 2011

Tamra Straling

July 13, 2011

Gary, I will miss you with all my heart. You will always be my baby brother. I had so many fun times with you growing up and as an adult doing fun things with you and Pheona. My heart is breaking (what is left of it).I wish I could get inside God's head and ask him what the heck he is doing...I just don't understand. It is not fair that I should have to bury another brother, and that mom and dad have to lay another child to rest. It was so exciting as your sister to see you happy with Becky , Pheona and your new house. I would take a bullet for you, I would be willing to be tortured the rest of my life or be a popper on the streets for the rest of my life. There is nothing I would not do for you or to have you back. Nothing...
I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART IN THIS LIFE AND IN HEAVEN.

When I look at the stars I will think of you, when I see a rider on his bike I will remember you smiling ear to ear on yours, when I hear Toby Kieth I will hear your voice and your chuckle. In every beautiful moment you will remain in my heart just as you always have....
Your forever sister, Tammy

Loved those RC cars!

Stace Cotherman

July 11, 2011

Gloria, Orval & Pheona,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will love you always as I loved Gary.
<3

Tami Mikaelsen

July 11, 2011

My heart goes out to Pheona and the entire family. I just found out what happened, I can't believe it. I work for Pheona's orthodontist and I always enjoyed visiting with Gary, listening to all his stories. He always had so much to share good or bad he always had a smile that was so contagious! I will miss him so much. May everyone's memories of Gary help heal the sorrow, may your hearts be forever filled with happy, memories of Gary! God Bless!

Chris Felkins

July 11, 2011

my brother from another mother,that was garys motto for me.I met gary the day he started at recoligy because i was his trainer.We hit it off from day one.He was a real likeable guy and quikly turned into a good friend.I started sharing about my experience with god and he wanted to know more.So he did start going to church with me and my wife bonnie and gave his life to jesus.So from then on we were brothers from different mothers.Gary was the kind of guy that would do anything for you.I called him on a friday afternoon and told him i needed someone to go to washington with me and he said come and get me,he didnt make exscuses why he couldnt or wouldnt go.He just simply said come and get me.Turned into a very fun trip.
Gary was a good friend and will be a loss to all that knew him.My deepest sympathy goes out to lil miss pheona who was garys number one reason for life.He was a great father to her.Rest in peace my brother.

Teya Traylor

July 11, 2011

I worked at Sullivan when Gary bought his lil Caliber. He was always a joy to work with. He would call me & tell me he was on his way. He always greeted me with a smile, telling me about his day. Very wonderful person! My thoughts & prayers to the family. May he rest in peace.

Richard Bramer

July 11, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Diana Perez

July 10, 2011

Gloria, Orval & Pheona,
Please accept my Deepest Sympathy on the tragic loss of your Son & Father. You & Gary are in my thoughts and prayers.

GLORIA AND ORVAL MATHIS

July 10, 2011

Dear Family and Friends,
We appreciate your loving thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. Orval and I want to give you an update regarding the happenings surrounding Gary’s service.
Orval and I are amazed at all the things the community is doing for our son. Gary knew many people in this town and was well loved. Apparently, Gary went into Starbuck’s everyday for coffee. The staff would get his drink ready as soon as they saw him pull up. The “Gary” special a mocha with 7 shots of raspberry. They have told Pheona and Gary’s girlfriend, Becky, they never have to pay for a coffee again. The local minute mart where Gary frequented thought “Gary was a jolly guy” and they have requested to donate all of the ice for his service reception.
Recology, Gary’s place of employment, is changing their adopt-a-highway sign to read “in memory of Recology’s Gary W Mathis on Highway 20. They have created stickers for all of their vehicles to read “route 229 complete Gary Mathis“. Route 229 was his route number which has now been retired. They are providing all the chairs, tables, shade covers and are having the reception catered for 300 people. The city has ok’ed to have the court blocked off at Gary’s and Becky’s home which is where the reception will take place. During the service Recology vehicles will be marking the streets and many of Gary’s motorcycle buddies will be riding in for his service.
Gary’s motorcycle buddies are sponsoring a memorial biker run in his memory on August 13,2011; all the proceeds are to benefit our little Pheona. Gary’s friend Crystal, who is the wife of one of his good friends, has gone all over town and received donations for the raffle that will take place during the motorcyle run. She is truly an amazing friend and has received donations from the local Harley shop and also the Rc Hobby shop that Gary frequented and many other stores. The motorcycle run will end at the Legion hall in Marysville where there will be music, raffle prizes and a steak dinner catered by Recology. The event planners of the motorcycle run would like to see Gary’s family at the Legion hall event. Orval and I hope that you will consider attending this event which should be fun a way to celebrate Gary’s life.
Orval and I hope that you visit his Guest book which will remain online indefinitely and add special thoughts or pictures that you would like to share with others about our beloved Gary.
Thank you for your continued prayers of comfort and peace during this time.
Gloria and Orval

courtney

July 10, 2011

Uncle Gary,
Things will never be the same, without you there is such a void. What a huge presence you have been in my life for thirty years. I love you, my kids love you. We miss you so much. We will continue to torture Pheona, forcing her to share with her cousins. Ha ha! Love you uncle

Gary and Fred at Christmas tide

Sandra Cox

July 10, 2011

Richard Burnett

July 10, 2011

I was very sorry to hear the news, I always had a fun time when I was around you, like the time I gave you the Tattoo, you were a great guy and will be greatly missed.

michael sampson

July 9, 2011

gary i will never forget you my friend, the world was a much better place with you in it. i always enjoyed being around you...i will miss you until we meet again. to gloria,orval and family i am very sorry,my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Uncle Gary(big dog) with his Niece "little"

sandra cox

July 9, 2011

Becky Haney

July 9, 2011

Gary, you were and always will be my heart and soul and I miss you more everyday. My heart belongs to you for eternity. I will always take care of Pheona and protect her. I love you so much Baby and I'll see you on the other side, wait for me.

July 9, 2011

Gary,
We all loved you very much and words cannot express how much you are missed.
You will always be in our hearts.
LOVE Aunt Gennette, Dan, Diane, Chris, J.D. and Jennifer, Jim, Claire and Dawn, who also loved you. When I see a beautiful sunrise I will think of you up there zooming through the clouds in the fresh morning air.
HUGS FROM US ALL.

our 6'4" baby brother

sandra cox

July 9, 2011

Sandra Cox

July 9, 2011

Brother, You are my heart, I will always watch over her.

your sis, Sam

Brian Ringler

July 8, 2011

this sux i was planning on riding with gary this summer but i remember gary,fred and i playing with the model rockets,swimming and them trying to get me to try to get on that dang horse just wasnt gonna happen they bolth will be deeply missed love ya all. brian

Robin Tidwell

July 8, 2011

Death leaves a heartache
no one can heal;
Love leaves a memory no one can steal...May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

ryan york

July 8, 2011

Well brother ride with your head held high and your hart on the open road. We will all miss you. You were A dam good friend and were there for me in my time of need bro. I hope you the best on the other side big brother I will allways love you and miss you. And I will do what ever I can to help your family love your litter brother Ryan.....RIP BRO.

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