Rickey L. Mathis

Rickey L. Mathis, 52, of East Peoria, IL passed away on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at his residence.  He was born on July 7, 1965 in Geneseo, IL to Marion Russell and Joyce Faye (Augustus) Mathis.  He married Melissa Joy Jacobs on September 5, 1985 in Sylvis, IL.  She survives.

Also surviving are his two sons Rickey (Katie) Mathis, Jr. of Washington and Russell (Annie) Mathis of Peoria; grandchildren Maddox, Gatlin, and Madilynn; and mother Joyce Augustus of Paducah, KY.  He was preceded in death by his father.

Rickey worked as a waste water treatment specialist at URS which worked with Caterpillar.  Rickey was a kindhearted, shy man. He always had his wife, Melissa Mathis, at the forefront of his mind. She was his world and the love of his life. They were always known as Ken and Barbie for his charming smile and her beautiful blonde hair. He was hardworking and dedicated. He rarely ever missed a day of work unless there was a family emergency. He raised two hard-nosed boys the right way by preparing them for the real world. Any car troubles they had, he was sure to fix them for us. He was the proudest father in the world for the accomplishments they have worked hard to obtain. 

His grandchildren lit up his world. He always was a kid at heart and you could tell how much his grandkids brought life into his days. He loved to take them to the creek and play in the rocks, sometimes letting them bring back ALL of the rocks. He would take them fishing and make them thoughtful creations that showed he was still capable of remembering what it was like to be a child with imagination. He held their hand like a grandpa should.

Funeral services will be held at 7:00 pm on Friday, May 11, 2018 at Mason Funeral Home Germantown Hills Chapel with Reverend Gary Salm officiating.  Visitation will be held prior to his service on Friday at the funeral home from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm.  Cremation rites will be accorded following his services.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Whitney’s Walk, c/o Hult Center for Healthy Living, 5215 North Knoxville Avenue, Peoria, IL 61614.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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