Jackson Herschel Mathis' Obituary
Jackson Herschel Mathis
October 11, 1941 – January 10, 2026
Jackson Herschel Mathis, 84, of Mannford, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 10, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply. Born on October 11, 1941, in Afton, Oklahoma, he was the son of Herschel Lovil Mathis and Mary Elizabeth Lemaster Mathis.
A proud Native American and member of the Cherokee Tribe, Jackson lived a life rooted in family, hard work, and simple joys. He married the love of his life, Yolanda Cecilia Pierce, on January 16, 2009, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and together they built a life filled with laughter, devotion, and countless memories.
Jackson was known for his love of “piddling”—always tinkering, fixing, or creating something with his hands. He had a lifelong passion for cars and motorcycles, and he never passed up an opportunity to get under a hood or take a ride. In his younger years, he enjoyed camping and spent many unforgettable days at Little Sahara in western Oklahoma with his dune buggy kicking up sand. He loved traveling, especially during his time doing “Hot Shot” work, which allowed him to drive all over the country—something that brought him great joy.
Whether he was tending to his yard and garden, target shooting, or trying his luck at the casino slots, Jackson embraced life with enthusiasm. Above all, he treasured time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He was a devoted family man whose presence brought warmth, humor, and steadiness to every gathering.
Jackson is survived by his wife, Yolanda Mathis of Mannford, OK; his sons, Brian Mathis and wife Kimberly of Mannford, OK; Michael Mathis and wife Mellissa of Catoosa, OK; and Joshua Mathis and wife Maranda of Tulsa, OK; his daughter, Rachel Stapleton of Tulsa, OK; his brother-in-law, Jerry Lockridge of Tulsa, OK; and his siblings, Roger Mathis and wife Bonnie of Tulsa, OK, and Janelle Gallardo of Tulsa, OK. He leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and a large circle of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Sue, Judy, and Lois; and twin brothers who passed at birth.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel with Minister Clair DeCorte officiating. Interment of ashes will follow immediately at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens.
Jackson lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and family devotion. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.
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