Harold Lester Mathenia

Harold Lester Mathenia was born in Caruthersville, Missouri, on November 16, 1938. He was the son of the late James Isom Mathenia & Melvina Wright.

Harold departed this life in Zephyrhills, Florida, on February 27, 2026, at the age of 87.

He attended the South Pemiscot schools, graduating from South Pemiscot High School.

Harold was inducted in the United States Air Force in May 1957, and received his Honorable Discharge at the Blytheville AFB on July 31, 1978, after serving his country for 21 years, 2 months and 10 days. He retired as a Master Sergeant and was very proud of his military career.

On March 4, 1966, in Caruthersville, Missouri, he was united in marriage to Sharon Ann Elkins. She preceded him in death on April 11, 2020.

Harold had numerous interests and hobbies, including western line dancing, bowling, golf, casinos, and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan.

He was of the Baptist faith.

He is survived by one son: Thomas (Tina) Mathenia of Zephyrhills, Florida; six granchildren: Matthew (Morgan) Mathenia of Paragould, Arkansas, Derek (Jessica)  Mathenia of Steele, Missouri, Joshua (Abby) Mathenia of Steele, Missouri, Ashtin (Anthony) Burgess of Pocohontas, Arkansas, Breanna (Dylan) Skimahorn of Brookland, Arkansas, and Elizabeth (Rachel) Qualls of Perryville, Missouri; nine great-grandchildren: Isabella Mathenia, Lexi Mathenia, Cade Mathenia, Rylee Burgess, Ryder Burgess, Harrison McCaig, Willow McCaig, Braxton McCaig and Natalie White; one sister: Mary Mathenia Hockaday; and a number of other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon, and son, Randal.

He was also preceded in death by the following brothers & sisters: Velta Mae Hundhausen, Orvil Mathenia, Leo Mathenia, Bernice Lewis, Earline Williams, L. H. Mathenia, Fred Mathenia, and Alvin Mathenia.

Graveside services were held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. in Maple Cemetery. 

H.S. Smith Funeral Home in charge of services. 

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