Delia Claudean Mathis, age 99, formerly of Louisville, Illinois, passed away Wednesday afternoon, April 22, 2020, at Evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Effingham.

     She was born August 26, 1920, in Kentucky, the daughter of  Walter H. and Cordelia (Sledd) Downing.  She was united in marriage to Rev. J.L. Mathis August 29, 1943, in Alton, Illinois and together they shared 65 years of marriage until his death June 20, 2009. 

     Claudean had worked in a glass factory in Alton.  She assisted and supported J.L. in his ministry over a sixty-year span that began in 1943.  During this time, they served at First Baptist Church in Hurst, Pleasant Grove and Pleasant Ridge in the Clear Creek Association, Long Branch of rural Galatia, First Baptist Church of Coulterville, Cross Baptist Church of rural Pinckneyville, Watson Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Murrayville, First Baptist Church of South Elgin, Fifth Avenue Baptist Church of Rochelle, First Baptist Church of Peru, and Calvary Baptist Church in Morris.  Claudean had most recently been a member of the First Baptist Church in Louisville.  She enjoyed singing and listening to her southern gospel music, and spending time with her family and friends.

     She is survived by her grandsons: Josh Mathis and Tim Mathis, both of Louisville; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: Rev. J.L. Mathis; 2 sons: Thomas (Sharon) Mathis and Jim Mathis; a daughter: Maretta Mathis; an infant daughter: Ladonna; and 6 siblings:  Mary Jane Miller, Henrietta “Eddo” Downing, William Bryan Downing, John Seldon Downing, Martha Emma Lou Baker, and Evelyn Dunnigan.

A private graveside service will be held at Orchard Hill Cemetery with Kelly Carruthers officiating.  Arrangements are in the care of Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to First Baptist Church in Louisville and will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a memory or condolence visit: www.frankandbright.com