William Rupert Mathis

Mr. William Rupert Mathis, 79, born January 17th, 1932 in Monticello, Florida and moved to Jacksonville as a teenager. He passed away on Sunday, February 13th, 2011 after an extended illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Bill attended Robert E. Lee High School and joined the Air Force and trained as a radar operator and served during the Korean War. After being discharged from the Air Force, he earned his GED and attended school to train as a climate control mechanical operator.

Bill was service supervisor for Trane for several years, followed by starting his own business. He married his high school sweetheart, Rachael Dickson. With whom he was married 57 years. He loved to fish, golf, and spent time in his mountain and lake homes.

He is survived by his loving wife Rachael Dickson Mathis, Daughter Kimberly Celli (Michael), Laurie Parker (Michael), grandsons Matthew Parker (Cassie) and Andrew Parker. He is predeceased by his parents Thomas and Cecile Mathis, his brother Tom Mathis and is grandson Joseph Daniel Celli. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday February 18th, 2011 at Hardage-Giddens of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd.

Arrangements under the direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, Jacksonville, FL.