Mr. Mathis was the son of the late Nelson Mathis and Elsie Williams Mathis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Terry Mathis, and his sister, Hope McFarlin.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Irene Warren Mathis. He is also survived by his children, Tammy Shaw of Bon Aqua, Tennessee; Tina Caldwell of Medina, Tennessee; and Greg (Sonja) Mathis of Meridianville, Alabama. He is further survived by his sisters, Joy Hutchison of Centerville, Tennessee; Sharon Armstrong of Duck River, Tennessee; and Patti Edwards of Centerville, Tennessee.

Mr. Mathis leaves behind a legacy of love in his grandchildren: LeAnn Brunner of Bon Aqua, Tennessee; Amanda Stapler of Waverly, Tennessee; Ashley Caldwell of Medina, Tennessee; Becky Henry of Medina, Tennessee; Anna Shockley of Huntsville, Alabama; and Andrew Mathis of Franklin, Tennessee, along with nine cherished great-grandchildren.

Gary was an active member of the Clearview Church of Christ and a dedicated member of the East Hickman Lions Club. He enjoyed spending time outdoors as an avid fisherman and was a passionate football enthusiast. Above all, he loved God, and his family and treasured the time spent with them.  Visitation with the family will be 24 Feb 2026 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at McDonald Funeral Home – Hickman County.  Funeral Services will begin at 12:00 PM with burial to follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery, Centerville, TN.