Artie R. Mathis, 65

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Artie R. Mathis, 65, of Ellis Grove, IL, died February 16, 2009 at his residence.

The son of Edward Lee and Clara (Wilson) Mathis, he was born March 6, 1943 in Steeleville, IL.

On May 2, 1970, he married Jeanette Junger in Oklahoma City, OK.

Artie was of the Baptist faith. He was retired from the Chester Mental Health Center, was a retired member of the Ellis Grove Fire and an avid fisherman.

Survivors include his wife of Ellis Grove, IL; three sons-Clayton "Beaver" Mathis of Chester, IL, Charles Mathis of Joliet, IL, and Michael Mathis of Preston, IL; two sisters-Virginia Kempfer of Evansville, IL and Faye Weaver of Phoenix, AZ; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Artie Ray Mathis, Jr. and Artie A. "BB" Mathis; three brothers; and four sisters.

According to his wishes, Artie will be cremated. A private Family Service will be held with Rev. Mike Fogerson officiating and a graveside service will be held at a later date. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2009 at Pechacek-McClure Funeral Home, Chester, IL.

Memorials may be made to the Family.