Commander Paul J. Mathis

A graveside service for Paul J. Mathis will be held Friday, September 27, 2024, at 11:30 AM at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens with Rev. Matthew Stokley officiating, burial to follow. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.

Mr. Paul J. Mathis, age 95, of Meridian passed away Monday, September 23, 2024, at Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Hospital.

Commander Mathis entered the U.S. Navy through the Holloway Midshipman Program and spent two years at Butler University, Indianapolis, IN, as an airman recruit. After completing basic training, he was designated a Naval Aviator in November 1949. He graduated from the University of Mississippi with his bachelor's degree in mathematics. Upon completing CIC school, he served several years on the USS Coral Sea in the Pacific; was attached to NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, flying surveillance missions during the Cuban Missile Crisis; afterwards reported to NAS Meridian in 1965 as a flight instructor and retired from active duty in 1969.

After his time in the military, he served in various administrative positions at Riley Hospital until retirement. He was a lifelong member of Central United Methodist Church in Meridian. He enjoyed golf, tennis, reading and cheering on his beloved Ole Miss Rebels. After the death of his wife Mary, he resided at The Preserve where he greatly enjoyed his remaining years and the friendships he built with the staff and residents. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his daughters, Diana Brantley (Brant) and Karen Manuel (Patrick); grandchildren, Matthew Brantley (Annie), Mary Kathryn McMillon (Kenny), William Manuel, and Christian Manuel; great-grandchildren, Cade and Finley McMillon; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Frances Mathis; son, Michael Paul Mathis; parents, Paul and Martha Mae Mathis; siblings, Charles Mathis and Claudette Mathis Downing.

Online condolences may be expressed at robertbarhamffh.com.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at the funeral home prior to graveside service.