Carol Louise Mathis

Carol Louise Mathis (1949-2026)

Carol delighted in her children and grandchildren above all, but found joy in simple pleasures such as the sunset over the mountains, wading in a cold creek, collecting pretty rocks, and watching her American flag wave from her balcony. Her generosity extended well beyond material things, evidenced in her spirit of service, sacrifice, and love for her family. She loved the Lord and spent many hours reading her Bible and praying.

Carol Louise Mathis, 76, of Pleasant Grove, UT, died on February 27, 2026.

She was born in Paris, Tennessee in 1949 to Adrian O'Dell and Mary Murphy Mathis as the first of five children, including herself, Adrian O'Dell Jr., Emily Ann, Lynn Marie, and Kay Gwen. The spirits of service and sacrifice were instilled in Carol from an early age by her father, who refused the stereotypes of segregation in the South and reached across racial divides to serve those less fortunate. Carol's childhood was full of delight in spending time with her grandparents, outdoor activities, and riding horses with her siblings.

Carol was preceded in death by her father, Adrian O'Dell Mathis, her mother, Mary Murphy Mathis, and her sister, Emily Mathis Baker. She is survived by her brother, Adrian Mathis, her sister, Lynn (Chuck) Watts, and her sister Kay (Randy) Wolter; and her daughter, Vanessa (David) Gaisford, and their children, David Jr., Madeline, and Hailey Gaisford; her daughter, Leyla (Patrick) Moody; and her daughter, Lynsi (Douglas) Keeble and their children, Kathryn, Elizabeth, Clyde, and Ann Keeble; and former husband, Michael Robert Smith.

Carol treasured her time with her grandchildren going to football games, baking over FaceTime, crafting, shopping, arranging flowers, and frequently sending gifts. Her beautiful heart allowed her to tell the truth with great love. She had a gift for creating a beautiful home, occasion, or craft and loved to share that with other people, creating a lot of special memories. Carol kept her childlike wonder and joy for life. Her love of the outdoors, nature's beauty, and playfulness stayed with her. Carol will always be remembered for the joyful light in her eyes, the comfort she provided, and her fierce love for her family. We'll always imagine hearing her say, "I'm hugging you with my heart," one more time. We could not have asked for a better Mom.