Carl Lee Mathews

Carl Lee Mathews, 69, a lifelong resident of Brantley, Alabama, passed away on August 30, 2025. He was born on July 27, 1956, to Jack and Ruby Mathews, and was fondly known by many as "Big Boy." A graveside service will be held for Carl at 11 AM on Wednesday. September 3rd, in Old Union Cemetery with Brother Ed Russell officiating and Turners Funeral Home of Luverne directing. Family and friends will meet in the cemetery at the service time.

Carl dearly loved his hometown of Brantley and the neighboring town of Luverne. There was truly no place he would rather be than riding the country roads, visiting with friends, and sharing a laugh. He had a gift for joking, picking, and bringing joy to others. Few things delighted him more than making people laugh - unless it was enjoying fried meat, a sweet treat, or an ice-cold Dr. Pepper.

He worked for many years as a logger alongside his brother, Tommy Mathews, and later owned and operated a community store that became a favorite gathering place for friends and neighbors. Above all, Carl was a devoted son who lovingly cared for his mother, Ruby Kilcrease Mathews, until her passing.

Carl was preceded in death by his father, William Harry "Jack" Mathews; his mother, Ruby Kilcrease Mathews; and his brother, William Thomas "Tommy" Mathews.

He is survived by his loving sister, Karen (Johnny) Andrews of Repton; his nephew, Josh Andrews of Repton; three nieces, Morgan Andrews of Repton, Tonya (Roland) Jones of Brantley, and Tracy (Kevin) Kennedy of Brantley; and his sister-in-law, Kay Mathews. He also leaves behind two great-nieces, two great-nephews, a special friend, Maureen Worley; three of his dearest friends, Jimmy "Slick" Beasley, LaDon "Rooster" Hudson, and Ricky "Stiff" Compton; his devoted cousin, Peggy Kilcrease, who faithfully supported him throughout his cancer journey; a large extended family; and countless friends who will deeply miss his humor, kindness, and generous spirit.

Active pallbearers will be Jimmy Beasley, LaDon Hudson, Ricky Compton, Josh Andrews, Max Bozeman, and Scotty Farmer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF).