Richard Lee Mathias

Richard Lee Mathias, 74, of Arcola, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home February 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and his dog, Floyd.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Edwards Funeral Home, 221 East Main Street in Arcola, IL. Memorial service will be held at 1:30 P.M. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the funeral home. Pastor Brandon Wright will officiate. Burial will be in the Arcola Cemetery.

Richard was born on October 24, 1951, in Peru, Indiana, the son of Dr. Richard E. and Joan (Hoagland) Mathias. He married the love of his life, Nancy Herrington, on September 10, 1971, in Arcola, Illinois. They shared nearly 49 years of marriage before her passing on July 14, 2020.

Richard is survived by his three children: Nichole Otayco and her husband Thomas of Columbus, OH, Bill Mathias of Arcola, IL, and Jeff Mathias and his wife Ellen of Arcola, IL. He was a proud grandfather to CJ Gomez, Mikey Mathias, Kaylee Mathias, and Joshua Mathias, and beloved great-grandfather to Carter, Clay, and Carson Gomez. He is also survived by two sisters, Christine Wells and her husband Darrell of Sullivan, IL, and Karen Jones and her husband Roger of Decatur, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Nancy, his granddaughter Emilee Mathias, and his brother Michael Mathias.

Richard built a long and steady career defined by dedication and hard work. He spent 13 years at USI in Tuscola and 23 years at Masterbrand in Arthur, forming friendships and memories that lasted well beyond his working days.

Those who knew Richard will remember his kindness, his easy laugh, and the unmistakable twinkle in his eye when he was about to deliver a practical joke. His humor brought joy to countless people, and his gentle spirit made him someone others naturally gravitated toward.

Outside of work, Richard embraced life with a sense of adventure and a love for the outdoors. He found peace riding his motorcycle, and he cherished time spent hunting deer, fly fishing, golfing, and shooting pool. He had a knack for woodworking and enjoyed traveling with his late wife, family and friends.

Above all, Richard loved his family deeply. His presence, his laughter, and his steady, good-hearted nature will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the Emilee Mathias Scholarship Fund or Willow Breeze Hospice House.