Joseph “Joey” Earl Mathews, 69, of Madrid, Alabama, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on November 29, 2025, at Southeast Health. Joey was born on July 12, 1956, in Donalsonville, Georgia.
A celebration of life will be announced by the family at a later date.
A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Joey served his country from 1974 to 1976 before returning home to begin the life he cherished most. He lovingly shared his life with his childhood sweetheart, Micki, whom he married in 1976. Together they raised their twin sons, Brandon and Brent, who were his pride and joy. He always believed nothing could surpass the love of being a husband and daddy, until he became a “Paw Paw”. His grandsons, Caleb and Eli, were his whole world. A die-hard Georgia Bulldogs fan, Joey worked as a mechanic and front-end man for more than forty years, known for his skill and dedication. He loved watching the “Dawgs” play football, hunting, tinkering with cars, and spending his days surrounded by the people who he loved more than anything.
He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Micki Mathews, of Madrid, Alabama; his sons Brent (Kristy) Mathews of Rehobeth, Alabama and Brandon Mathews of Madrid, Alabama; his grandsons, Caleb and Eli Mathews, of Rehobeth, Alabama; his mother-in-law, Carolyn Whitehead of Dothan, Alabama; his sister Calista Phillips, of Ashford, Alabama; his sister-in-law Sonya (Tony) Reeder of Slocomb, Alabama; special nieces and nephew, Darlene Morris of Iron City, Georgia, Debra McLendon of Iron City, Georgia and Chris (Kellie) Phillips of Ashford, Alabama; great niece, Kaitlin (Chaz) Crawford of Ashford, Alabama; great nephew Chris Phillips of Ashford, Alabama, cherished friend Paul Hulon, as well as extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Mathews; his mother, Bernice Mathews; his brothers, Edward Mathews and Clarence Mathews; his nephews, David, Dale, and Donald Mathews and father-in-law, Thomas “TJ” Whitehead.
A life so full of love leaves an imprint that will never fade.
