Mavis Matthews

DECLO – Mavis Fries Matthews, 96, passed away at her home in Declo on September 26, 2025.
She was born in Declo on September 13, 1929 to Otis Alonzo and Berniece Cahoon Fries. She was the second of ten children and learned at an early age to work and help with the family. She attended schools in Declo, graduating from high school in 1947. She was Declo through and through.
Mavis married T.R. Mike Matthews in Elko, Nevada on November 8, 1947. They made their home in Declo for the next 73 years. Together they raised seven children. Mavis taught them to cook, clean, sew, work hard, and serve others. Following her example, her children have learned to serve and care for those around them.
When the family was nearly raised, Mavis went to work as a rural mail carrier for the US Postal Service. For the next 22 years she enjoyed meeting and developing friendships with the people on her routes, and often expressed her appreciation for that job.
Mavis loved collecting dolls and elephants, family camping trips, burning weeds, hot dog roasts, and her grandchildren. She was loved and respected by so many. She taught us a lot through her example of service.
Mavis is survived by her children, Sharon (Dennis) Reed of Pocatello, Sandy (Gary) Mallory of Declo, Tim (Joy) Matthews of Jerome, Pam (Lamont) Young of Declo, Casey (Jodie) Matthews of Bonner, Montana, and Laurie (Todd) Webb of Raft River; sister, Barbara Vosburg of Sparks, Nevada; brother, Gene Fries of Declo; 19 grandchildren and fifty seven great-grandchildren.