Freddie Lee Mathis

Freddie Lee Mathis, 77 of Richmond, Virginia departed this life Wednesday, November 13, 2013. Our hearts are saddened by the loss of our beloved. He was born to the late George Mathis Sr. and Alberta Ozts in Edgefield, South Carolina on February 27, 1936. He is preceded in death by his siblings Albert, Little George, Josie Ruth, Sam and Thomas Mathis. He attended Bettis Academy and Junior College in South Carolina which was closed in 1955 and was significant for its role in higher education of African Americans from the late nineteenth through the mid-twentieth century. Freddie married the love of his life and best friend, Edith C. Mathis and from that union four children were born. He was a true self-employed businessman who made his mark in Richmond, the owner of Freddie’s Grill for more than 35 years on North Avenue. Freddie was part of his community. At times his establishment was used for promoting political candidates that were running for various offices in the city. He was a former member of Northside Business Association and Club 533. He was also an active member of the Masons, Henrico Chapter 41. He loved life and gave love to everyone around him. Freddie will always be remembered as a loving, fun-filled, spirited man who was humble and patience. Not only was he a great husband, father, grandfather, brother and special friend to many, but the family provider as well. Our Freddie was a true reflection of God’s love. He was a member of Providence Park Baptist Church where he received his spiritual guidance. Freddie had a wonderful warm spirit about himself. He will be greatly missed and we will never allow the light to flicker and continue to carry his torch to eternity. He was an inspiration to his family. He always had encouraging words for the family he loved so much. Freddie always found good in everyone. To know him was to love him. Freddie was a very compassionate and caring person. He enjoyed taking his family camping, cooking, going to the movies and was known as an avid reader. He leaves to cherish his memory loving and devoted wife of 57 years, Edith C. Mathis; daughter, Zanthia Mathis; three sons, Ronald, Wayne and Freddie Mathis; four grandchildren, Jacqueline, Danielle, Felicia, Stephanie and Wayne; two sisters, Nelba McClennon (Ernest) and Helen Smith; one sister-in-law, Peggy Beatty (Bill); two brothers-in-law, Grover Willingham (Yvonne) and Larry Willingham (Virian); and a host of other relatives and friends.

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Freddie Lee Mathis

February 27, 1936 - November 13, 2013