Richard Sullivan Mathews, Sr.

Richard Sullivan Mathews, Sr. of Lee’s Summit, MO passed away on February 7, 2023. Richard was born on September 3, 1931 in Osceola, MO to parents, Lewis “Andy” and Vera Mathews. He graduated from Collins High School in Collins, MO - Class of 1949. After graduation came to Kansas City and became a member of IBEW Local #124 as an apprentice. Before he completed his apprenticeship. Richard joined the Navy in May 1952. He met his wife, Julia, while he was home on leave. They had 6 dates and Julia took a train to Corpus Christi, TX. They were married on their 7th date which was July 27, 1953 in Corpus Christi, TX. He served the Navy for 4 years in Corpus Christi, TX and San Diego, CA as a Flight Engineer. After he was discharged December 15, 1955, they settled in Raytown, MO where they raised their family. He was a devoted husband and father to his three children.

Richard was a Union member of IBEW Local #124 for almost 75 years. He was respected by so many that he trained and worked with over the years. Richard was also a member of the Ararat Shriners and Masonic Lodge 361-Raytown, MO for over 50 years.

Richard was blessed with 6 grandchildren. He adored each and every one of them. To paraphrase one of the grandchildren - “Our world was a better place because he was in it. We are the people we are today because of him”. He was always there when they needed him.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Lewis and Vera Mathews, five brothers, John, Robert, Tyke, Frank, Dan, and son-in-law David Wise.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Julia. Three children, Jeanie Mathews (Steve Updegraff), Dick (Terry) Mathews and Rindy Mathews Wise. Six grandchildren – Michael (Lindsay) Garcia, David (Kim) Garcia, Ky (Brian) Schneiweis, Kasey (Kyle) Miller, Chuck (Cathy) Wise, Jayme Brown. And 12 great grandchildren, Brody, Addison, Jonathan, Julia, Marie, Emma, Cheyenne, Paige, Alyvia, Joseph, Austin, and Hayle. And many nieces and nephews.