Dorothea Elinor Mathews

Dorothea Elinor Mathews, “Little Sweet,” passed away at her home in Gainesville on Friday May 4.



She was born March 5, 1921 to Lillie and Ed Smith in Galveston. Growing up on an island, she developed a life long love of the beach.



Dorothea received her degree from Baylor University, and after graduation in June 1941, she married her college sweetheart S. J. “Bunco” Mathews. Throughout their married life they followed Bunco’s career in the oil business to the Gulf coast, west Texas, and eventually to Europe. They lived in The Hague, Madrid, and Copenhagen and traveled extensively throughout Europe and the middle east.



Dorothea was an active member of First Baptist Church Gainesville for almost 50 years. She loved the Lord and took joy in helping, praying for, and encouraging others in His name.



She was cherished by her family and friends who will always treasure sweet memories of her love for them.



She is survived by her sister LaVerne Newton of Littleton Colorado; her children Bob Mathews (Janis), Mary Kelly (John), and Don Mathews; grandchildren Sarah Florence (Matt), Mark Kelly (Annie), Jay Kelly (Emily), and Colin Kelly; great grands Ava and Nate Florence and Sawyer and Emmett Kelly; and nephews Pat, Tim and Dan Kelly.



Donations to honor Dorothea may be made to Home Hospice of Cooke County, or Missions Fund at First Baptist Church Gainesville.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11am at the First Baptist Church on Friday May 11 under the direction of the Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home. No visitation is planned.