Gary Lee Mathis, 68, of Bay City passed away September 14, 2019 after a short illness. He was born August 16, 1951 in Wharton, TX to Allen Mathis and Averill Hoffman Mathis.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Joe Buzek and sisters Patricia Mathis and Sandra Herrington.

Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Linda; children Staci (Adrian) Mathis, James (Silvia) Mathis and Sara (Eli) Hatfield; grandchildren Candyce Brigham, Emily Mathis, Adrian Thornton, Blayne Mathis, Staci Thornton, Olivia Mathis, Mae Thornton, Kaitlyn Hatfield and Ethan Hatfield; great grandchild Sawyer Mitchell; siblings Robert Mathis, Averill Sexton and Cyril Buzek.

Gary joined the US Army in 1970 and served one tour of duty in Vietnam. Upon his return, he worked in the oilfield and eventually started his own welding service. His desire to serve the public led him to a 28 year career in law enforcement. Being guided by his strong Christian faith and honest beliefs, he served as Matagorda County Sheriff from 2009-2012.

Gary was a strong family man, loving his children and grandkids with his whole heart. No matter the time of day, if anyone in his family needed anything, he was always quick to help. He will be dearly missed.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5PM until 7PM Thursday, September 19, 2019 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Friday, September 20, 2019 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Midfield Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Tim Pelischek, Blayne Mathis, Jeff Dannels, Jacob Dannels, Brian Dannels and Joshua Dannels.