Dr. Robert David Mathews passed from this life on Sunday, January 26, 2025. The family will receive family and friends on Saturday, February 8, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Sheffield. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the church with Jaina Glaze officiating.
Robert was born in Mobile, Alabama to Condie and Robbie Mathews in October 1940. He graduated from the Medical College of Alabama. Robert achieved the rank of Major in the US Army, serving as an anesthesiologist during the Vietnam War. He earned the Soldier’s Medal (the highest noncombat medal available) and a Bronze Star during his service. In 1975 he and his partner, Dr. Larry Holcomb, established Shoals Urology in Sheffield and Florence. They were later joined by Dr. Mike Yordy and Dr. Mark Smith. Robert retired after working thirty years. He was an avid fly fisherman, enjoying trips to Wyoming, Montana, Alaska, Canada, and Chile. Robert was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, George Dearden; sister-in-law, Pat Mathews; friends, Barry Hightower, Sam Barnes, and Don Armstrong.
Robert is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years, Leta Mathews; two sons, David “Bo” Mathews (Shannon) and Dr. Brian Mathews (Michelle); five grandchildren, Eavan Mathews (Luke), Rebecca Mathews (Sam), Corrina Mathews (Andrew), Elliot Mathews, and Tessa Mathews; brother, Nick Mathews; sisters-in-law, Jeanette White (Tony), Judy Billmeier (Ray), and Clet Dearden; several nieces and nephews; and many good friends from over the years.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Melissa George Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
