Jerry L. Mathews

Jerry Lamar Mathews was born to Jessie Lee Raley and David Mathews at their home in Andalusia, Alabama, on Nov 8, 1939. He passed from this life to be with Jesus on February 3, 2026, at his residence in Niceville, Florida.

Jerry learned to work hard at an early age. He picked cotton and helped his father farm. He quit school in 10th grade after his father was injured. He then followed his beloved uncles into the military. After spending a short time in the Army National Guard, he joined the United States Navy and served for 22 years. He served two tours in Vietnam and later participated in "Operation Homecoming" for returning Vietnam POWs.

After his retirement in 1979, Jerry went on to work in retail management – most notably TG&Y. He also dispatched part-time at the Niceville Police Department and eventually retired from Civil Service at Eglin Air Force Base.

In every season of life, Jerry volunteered and helped those less fortunate. He was quick to help both family and friends. He never asked anyone to do something he would not do. He loved fiercely and laughed often.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Annette Mathews, and his sister, Sandra Williams. He is survived by his daughters, Renee Meyers (Darren) and Karen Prater (Toby); brother, James Mathews (Charlene), and sister-in-law Jeanette Howell; grandchildren, Britt Budden (Savannah), Ashleigh Budden, Leslie Rice (Chris), Abby Holland (James), Zach Prater (Mandy), Tony Prater (Emily), Kim Hicks (David); great-grandchildren, Taylor, Maddox, Blake, Caroline, Emma R, Addison, Chrislyn, Harley, Merabella, Lexi, Turner, Emma A, Preston, Parker, Braxton, Landis, Sloane and Logan. Numerous nieces, nephews, and friends will also miss him dearly.

A very special thank you to Gentiva Hospice – Karen, Chad, Amber, Gia, and Annie. Your warmth and care for our entire family made those last few days easier.