Grandmother Mathis

Thanks to all of you that have been praying for my grandmother, Cathleen Mathis, and our family over the past few weeks. Grandmother was discharged from the hospital Wednesday and passed away at the nursing home on Friday afternoon. Mom, Dad, and Uncle Don were there visiting her at the time. She was still suffering from pneumonia and was very weak. While we are all saddened by the loss, we can rejoice in the fact that Grandmother was a Christian. She loved the Lord and had served Him faithfully. We are thankful that she is no longer in pain and is with the Father now.

While I was growing up, Grandmother lived in a small apartment not too far from my house. When I visited her, we'd spend the time playing cards, working jigsaw puzzels, and sometimes even going for a walk. There was often a new picture of someone in the family to see. She was so proud of her family. Grandmother had four children, 16 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and about 10 great-great-grandchildren. Isn't that amazing?!

She was such a fine woman who always put her family first. Her husband died at a young age, leaving her with four small children to raise. Grandmother never remarried, saying that she just focused on taking care of her kids. Finding another mate was never something she considered. While many people might not make the same choice she did, Grandmother's dedication to her children has always been something I've admired about her.

A memory that makes me laugh is from my teen years when Grandmother broke her knee and was staying with us. I came home from school to find Grandmother, Mom, and one of Grandmother's friends at the kitchen table playing Skip-bo. Grandmother and her friend were talking all kinds of smack back and forth like young girls!! Guess that's where I get it.

Please continue to remember the Mathis family in your prayers. While we do have comfort in knowing Grandmother is in Heaven, this time of adjustment will not be easy. Pray also for those traveling, as most of the family live out of town.