R. Wayne Mathews

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rubin Wayne Mathews, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who entered into eternal rest on October 22, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on June 3, 1941, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Wayne dedicated his life to family, faith, and service within the community.

He is survived by his loving wife, Clara Mathews, with whom he celebrated over 64 years of marriage, and their two sons, John and his wife Danice, and Jarrett and his wife Robyn. Wayne was the proud grandfather to four grandsons-Marshall, Joey, Evan, and Klint-who brought him immeasurable joy. He also leaves behind two brothers, Don and his wife Betty, and Mark, along with cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Winnie and RC Mathews, and his sister, Judy Cantwell.

Wayne graduated from Petrolia High School in 1959 and went on to earn his degree from Pharmacy school at South Western Oklahoma University in 1963. His professional journey began at Griffin Drug in Bowie, Tx, and he later moved to Ranger and became a partner at a drugstore with Dr. L.R. Gohlke before fulfilling his dream of ownership through a "gentlemen's handshake" agreement.

From a young age, Wayne was deeply rooted in his faith. He became a believer and was baptized at the age of nine in the Rock Bottom Tank on the Mathews Ranch. He actively participated in a church throughout his life and was notably a deacon at First Baptist Church in Ranger before moving to Lake Leon Baptist Church. His commitment to community service was evident as he served on the Ranger College Board of Regents, participated in the Ranger City Council, and was a member of both the Jaycees and then the Lions Club for over 50 years. Wayne was honored at his alma mater for his 50 years of service as a pharmacist, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to bettering the lives of those around him. He was awarded an honorary PhD of Pharmacy

In addition to his professional achievements, Wayne cherished the great outdoors. He had a passion for quail hunting, fishing-particularly on the White River-water skiing, snow skiing, ranching, and even built his own experimental aircraft from a kit in the 1980s. He found joy in simple pleasures, such as playing pool and ping pong, telling jokes, enjoying coffee and Blue Bell ice cream, and, above all, spending quality time with family and friends during gatherings over the game of 42.

A celebration of Wayne's remarkable life will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the Lake Leon Baptist Church, where Dr. T. Nathan Tucker and Pastor Craig Rhoton will officiate. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation at Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger on Saturday, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Wayne Mathews leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and laughter. Though he is deeply missed, his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.