Arthur Mathias

Grove, OK - Arthur Roosevelt Mathias, Jr., 83, died Thursday morning, February 8, 2007 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. Art, or "Lucky" as he was known to family and friends, was born August 28, 1923 at Stafford, Kansas to Arthur Roosevelt Mathias, Sr. and Laura Etta (West) Mathias. Art grew up in Stafford and joined the U.S. Navy after his junior year of high school. He served during World War II, attaining the rank of Seaman First Class. Upon his honorable discharge from the military, Art married Billie J. Porter on June 11, 1946 at Wichita, Kansas. The couple continued to make Wichita their home as Art worked for Cessna Aircraft. He retired as a Cost Estimator for Cessna in 1987, after 39 years of service. He and Billie moved to Grove, Oklahoma in 1989. Art and Billie were charter members of the Oak View Christian Church, Wichita, Kansas. They were active in the Grove AARP and the Grand Travelers. Art was an avid bowler and enjoyed many other sports as well. In his younger days, he pitched for a Donkey Softball Team. Survivors include his wife, Billie of the home; one brother, Cedric Mathias of Denver, Colorado, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; by two brothers, Ben & Clyde Mathias and by four sisters, Bertha Smith, Arletta Mathias, Bonnie Jagger and Dorine Joseph. Visitation will be held 6-7 p.m., Tuesday, February 13, 2007 at Worley-Luginbuel Funeral Home, immediately followed by funeral services at 7 p.m. Committal service will be 10 a.m., Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at Buzzard Cemetery, under the direction of Worley-Luginbuel Funeral Home. Military graveside rites will be provided Wednesday by the Grove Veteran Ritual Team. The family suggests that friends who wish donate to the charity of their choice in memory of Art. Family and friends may send online condolences by viewing obituaries at www.honoringmemories.com.

Service Details

Tuesday, February 13th, 2007 7:00pm, Worley-Luginbuel Funeral Home - Grove

Interment Details

Buzzard Cemetery