Edward Mathews

MATHEWS, Edward C., age 87, went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 6, 2010. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Lydia Mathews; brother, Ralph Mathews in WWII. Edward is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Thelma; son, Larry (Sue) Mathews; 3 grandchildren, Justin (Stephanie) Mathews, Cheryl Mathews and Allison (Ben) Jennings; 1 great-grandchild, Colton Jennings; sister, Loretta Brown; brothers Richard and James Mathews along with several nieces and nephews. Edward was a "Man of God" and was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church since 1958. He served there as a Deacon and Sunday school teacher. He was an artist and personally painted the Baptismal mural at the church. He served his country in both the 3rd Army and 8th Air Force during WWII in which he saw action at both Normandy and Liberation of Paris, earning him the Purple Heart and other ribbons and medals. After the war he was employed at WPAFB from 1947-1979 as the "Visual Information Chief". Edward enjoyed painting, cartooning and was an avid railroad buff with a large collection of books, photos and memorabilia. He enjoyed watching a "fast western" as long as it didn't have a lot of "horsing around" in it. Edward was quick witted with a great sense of humor. Family will receive friends from 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 11 until time of service at Emmanuel Baptist Church (1501 E. Third St. Dayton, OH 45403). Interment will take place at Dayton National Cemetery at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Diabetes Association or American Heart Association.