Huey Larry Mathews, 88, of Guntersville, Alabama, died October 3, 2026. A man of strong Christian faith, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride in his family and in a distinguished career of service to his country.
Larry was born in Pickens County, Alabama, on March 24, 1938 at the Pioneer Lumber Camp, to Norma and Huey Mathews. In 1956, he graduated from Greene County High School in Eutaw, where he played football and basketball and met Janice Marie Roebuck, his lifelong sweetheart. They married on August 21,1958 and built a life together of adventure, travel, love, and faith.
Larry’s career began as an engineering aide on the Armistead Selden Lock and Dam project near Eutaw. He served in the United States Air Force as a jet engine mechanic before returning to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. While working on the Holt Lock and Dam project, he earned his degree in civil engineering from the University of Alabama in 1969, all while raising a young family.
Over his distinguished career, Larry held engineering and leadership roles in Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Saudi Arabia. In Saudi Arabia, he helped oversee major construction projects, including the King Abdul Aziz Military Academy. During Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, he served as Chief of Design and Construction for U.S. forces in the Dhahran area. Later, in Huntsville, he helped oversee construction of chemical demilitarization plants. He retired from federal service in 1997 after 40 years of service, including 3½ years in the Air Force and 36½ years with the Corps of Engineers. Larry was deeply proud of his career and his service to his country.
Larry’s devotion to his family was just as evident. For many years, he and Janice cared for his mother-in-law and sister-in-law in their home. They also formed close bonds with the Marshall Manor Nursing and Rehab Center community. Later, Larry cared for Janice through her years with Alzheimer’s disease, showing her extraordinary patience and tenderness.
Larry found joy in many hobbies. Fishing brought him peace and enjoyment, and he loved building and repairing things in his garage, bowling, gardening, fixing up cars, and playing Souse–the family card game. He was a gifted storyteller who could bring people together with his stories, and above all, he treasured the time he spent with his family.
HIs faith was an important part of his life. He was raised in Eutaw Baptist Church and, later in life, became a devoted member of Brindlee Mountain Church of the Nazarene.
Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice Marie (Roebuck) Mathews; his parents, Norma and Huey Mathews; and his brother, Paul Mathews, Sr.
He is survived by his children and their spouses, Barry Mathews (Beth), Sherri Sheldon (John), and Russell Mathews (Janet); his grandchildren, Meagan Mathews (John), Wesley Mathews (Rachel), Jack Mathews (Ayaka), Angela Mathews (Nick), and Ashley Garrett (Robbie); and his great-grandchildren, Neil, Atlas, Phoebe, Benjamin, Maria, Bonnie, and Molly. He is also survived by his sister, Wanda Day; his brother, Bill Mathews (Susan); his brother-in-law, Bill Roebuck (Gillian); several nieces and nephews; and countless dear friends.
Larry’s legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the work he took pride in, the things he built with his hands, and the generous, caring way he lived.
The family is especially grateful to the Marshall Manor community for decades of devoted care for Larry, Janice, Fannie Mae, and Betty. They also extend their heartfelt gratitude to Cathy Campbell for her many years of loving and compassionate care, and for always going above and beyond.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
