Joseph Newton Mathews, 89, of Sheridan, Arkansas left this world an accomplished man on Monday, March 24th, 2025, to be united with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was born to the late Overton Dean Mathews and Lochie (Rankin) Mathews, on Tuesday, July 2nd, 1935, in Sheridan, Arkansas.

His interests included membership in the H&L Hunting Club, Sheridan and Cane Creek Riding Clubs, four-wheeler riding, fishing, reading his Bible, jokester, membership in the Central Arkansas Antique Machinery and Historical Society, membership in the Central Arkansas Two Cylinder Club, and spending quality time with his loving wife of 20 years, Joanie.

He was involved with the Shriners organization for many years, playing the musette in their band. He was a 32nd degree Mason of the Scottish Rite. He was involved in high school activities excelling in football, choir and band. He was a member of the Arkansas National Guard from 1954-1962, serving with the 437 Artillery 39th Infantry as a medical specialist, and was activated during the 1957 Central High School crisis. He also worked at the United States Postal Service for 32 years before retiring in 1992.

He is preceded in death by his former wives, Mary Jo Mathews and Gay Griffin Mathews; his ten siblings, Albert Mathews, Helynn Beasley, Bobby Taylor, Edna Heitschmidt, Helen Mathews, Billy Mathews, Margaret Mathews Rath, Connie Mathews Bain, O.D. Mathews, Jr., and Betty Jane Mathews Young; and his parents, O.D. Mathews, Sr. and Lochie Rankin Mathews.

Left to cherish his memories and legacy is his loving wife, Joanie Mathews; his children, Chuck Mathews and Mary Kay Palmer of Sheridan; his grandson, Jacob Palmer of Sheridan; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who all love him and will miss him so much!

A celebration of Joe's life will be held on Friday, March 28th, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at Marlow Missionary Baptist Church: 149 Grant-58, Sheridan, Arkansas 72150.

The family wants to express their gratitude to the Cane Creek Volunteer Fire Department for their help over the past few weeks.