Lawrence Charles "Larry" Mathies Jr., age 88, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026, in Winter Park, Florida and went home to be with his beloved wife Martha and his Lord and Savior. Born on May 21, 1938, in Springfield, Illinois, Larry lived a life defined by devotion, craftsmanship, and quiet strength. Larry is survived by his sister Carol Truax (Girard, Ill), son Chris Mathies (Orlando, FL) and daughter Jane Thompson (Jacksonville, FL)

Larry graduated from Lamphier High School in Springfield, Illinois, and went on to attend and graduate with a bachelor’s degree from Bradley University. His career was marked by innovation and versatility, working for Dura Automotive where designed and developed a patented hydraulic lift assembly before becoming a business owner and managing properties for Jerrico Inc. His professional endeavors reflected his industrious nature and ability to create and improve.

A man of remarkable creativity and skill, Larry was a gifted craftsman whose talents were evident in everything he touched. Whether building or remodeling homes, crafting furniture, painting or solving complex problems with his hands, Larry’s work was an expression of his love and care. Early in his life, he demonstrated this devotion by building the home where his wife Martha’s parents lived in Springfield Illinois and constructing a beautiful boat by hand, affectionately named “The Marty J” in her honor. His craftsmanship extended beyond his family; friends and neighbors alike benefited from his generosity and skill. In the neighborhoods where he and Martha lived Larry was known to all the neighborhood kids as “the man with the air” and they would show up when he was in his workspace and knock on the front door and ask if he was the man with the air to pump up bike tires, balls, etc.. Larry Mathies was a fighter, master builder, artist, craftsman and his works will live on for years to come.

At the heart of Larry’s life was his beloved wife, Martha. Their love story began in 1957 and grew deeper with each passing year. Larry’s unwavering commitment to Martha was evident in countless ways. Together, they built a life filled with love and devotion that served as an anchor for their family.

Larry was a devoted father to Curt Mathies, Chris Mathies (Linda) and Jane Thompson (Tracy) and a proud grandfather, known as "Captain," to Trae Thompson, Tori Tutwiler, Tatum Middlekauff, Tanner Thompson, and Tucker Thompson and five+ Great Grandchildren.

Beyond his family, Larry poured his time and energy into making the world around him better. He volunteered extensively at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, where his care and craftsmanship left a lasting impact as well as volunteering with the Sea Turtle Patrol with Martha by his side. In Beverly Beach, Florida, where he served as a City Commissioner for many years, Larry worked tirelessly to strengthen the community and make it better for all that called his beloved Beverly Beach home. He was especially proud of the Beach Cross overs that he helped fund and build for the residents and visitors.

Larry’s life was guided by kindness, intelligence, patience, and quiet determination. He lived with purpose and left behind a legacy that will endure through the places he improved, the people he helped, and the lessons he imparted to those fortunate enough to know him.

Larry is predeceased by his parents, wife Martha Jane Mathies of 64 years and son Curtis Lawrence (Curt) Mathies.

May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him and inspiration to all who reflect on the remarkable life he led and all that he was able to accomplish and build.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on Friday July 24, 2026, at the Beverly Beach Town Hall 2735 N. Oceanshore Blvd. on Highway A1A, Flagler Beach FL 32136.