Dorothy Helen Mathis

DOROTHY HELEN MATHIS (September 27, 1943-FEBRUARY 28, 2025)

“For my ways are not your ways, neither are my thoughts your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8). On Friday, February 28, 2025, our Heavenly Father said, “Come home, Dorothy; it’s time to rest now. Your joy, trials, and sufferings are over. Your work on earth is done.”

Mrs. Mathis’ life began on September 27, 1943, on a farm in the Malone community. There, she and her siblings learned the value of hard work which grew to be characteristic of her entire life. For many years she worked at the Bill’s Dollar Store and the Malone IGA, and the fruit and vegetable stand in Marianna. In later years, she was also a much sought-out caregiver. Her kindness and professionalism, coupled with that gentle touch, brought peace and relief to many who entrusted their loved ones into her care.

Dorothy loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She also loved and was very actively involved in her church, Collins Chapel. Today, what she sang about in her favorite song, “I Love to Tell the Story”, is now an eternal reality. 

The people and the town of Malone had a very special place in her heart. She was always giving—always putting others first. As a result, she was twice nominated for “Citizen of the Year” in Jackson County. Today, in Malone, her name is synonymous with the Malone Pecan Festival and Fun Day. When the demise of this festival was looming, she spearheaded the grassroots’ effort to continue the tradition. The word ‘demise’ in relation to this annual event was not in her vocabulary.

Dorothy loved her family and friends unconditionally. She is preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Mathis; her mother and father: Hettie and S.W. (Tince) Jacobs; her grandmother, Henrietta Jacobs; her siblings: Viola, Mary Lou, Dale, and her little brother. Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Denise; her grandchildren, David, Matthew, and Brandon (Sarah); her great-grandchildren, Keigan, and Ian; her siblings, Ethel, John, Hettie, Ollie, Flora (Ken), and Tina; and many cherished relatives and friends.

Dorothy has heard the voice of Jesus, “Welcome home, thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” 

A home-going service for Dorothy will be 2 PM Thursday, March 6, 2025 at Collins Chapel Baptist Church in Malone, FL with Pastor Ken Beard officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing. 

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Collins Chapel Baptist Church.