Obituary of Larry Mathis

Larry Wayne Mathis was born in Woodbury, Tennessee on May 25, 1959. He was one of five children born from the union of the late Robert Mathis and the late Virginia (Underwood) Mathis. Larry attended Airport Schools. Larry married the love of his life, the former Lillie Burton on October 24, 1986 in Monroe. For more than twenty-four years, Larry supported his family at Lear Corporation in Romulus. He held a variety of positions over the years such as a Hilo Driver and worked on the assembly line. He served his fellow employees as a Union Representative as well. Larry enjoyed traveling and camping. He had a generous heart, and went out of his way to help others. He was a skilled craftsman and a jack of all trades. Larry used his gifts to build decks, garages, and additions, and completed electrical projects. He loved the freedom of riding motorcycles, and he had been privileged to own several Harley's. Larry had a great sense of humor, and could always be counted on for a one-liner or just to be the life of the party. Larry enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He was very active with Special Olympics fundraising. Larry Wayne Mathis, age 54 of Newport passed away at home on Tuesday, June 4, 2013. He had been under the care of Mercy Memorial Hospice. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by brothers: Bobby and Freddy Mathis. To cherish his memory, Larry leaves his wife: Lillie of Newport; daughter: Sarah Barranco and boyfriend Eric of New Mexico; stepsons: Joe Resto of Jackson and Paul Burton of Detroit; sisters: Millie (Ken) Larabell of LaSalle and Ruby Ann (Mike) Schmitt of Rockwood; eleven grandchildren: Nicholas, Brett, Evander, Lynsey, David, Shawn, Cody, Katie, Steven, Matthew, and Timmy; five great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends may gather from 2:00-7:00pm, Thursday, June 6, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 7:00pm with the Rev. David Jones pastor of Northbrook Church in Carleton officiating. The Family at Larry's request suggest that all guests come dressed in their leathers, t-shirt, and jeans; NO SUITS! In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Mercy Memorial Hospice. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.