Francis Mathis New Providence

Francis Mathis, 79, of New Providence died Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016, at his home.

A service of remembrance was 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at Honey Creek New Providence Friends Church in New Providence. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Boeke Funeral Home, 501 E. Maple St., in Hubbard was in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.boekefuneralhomes.com.

Francis Fred Mathis, son of Basil and Jessie Mathis, was born March 20, 1937, on the family farm in Page County. He received his education by attending schools in southern Iowa.

On March 5, 1955, Francis married Twyla Smith in Osceola. For most of his life, Francis worked for several farmers as a hired hand. He also spent 20 years working at United Supplier in Eldora. After he retired, he helped out at Lawn Hill Coop and had a variety of mowing jobs.

He was a member of Honey Creek New Providence Friends Church.

Francis is survived by his wife Twyla of New Providence; children, Stephen (Sheri) of Hampton, Melvin of Eldora, Sandra (Douglas) Tjarks of New Providence, Myrna Mathis of New Providence, Rhonda Wood of Iowa Falls and James of New Providence; 11 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; along with other relatives and friends.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents, brother Don and step-siblings, Mary Virginia and Raymond.