Charlene Jane Matheny

(Maiden Name: Charlene Ketchem)

Charlene Jane Matheny, 90, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026.

She was born on March 23, 1935, in Morris, Illinois, the daughter of Leona Elizabeth Wagner Ketchem and Charles Daugherty Ketchem. Charlene graduated from Morris High School and began a life centered on family, community, and hard work.

Charlene was preceded in death by her mother and father; her beloved husband, Leslie Harold Matheny; her son, Donald Edward Feeney; her stepson, Les Gerald Matheny; and her sisters, Lola Watchinski and Dorothy Phillips.

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Jayne Matheny-Outland of Anaconda, Montana (William); her grandchildren, Joleen Emami of Tucson, Arizona (AJ), Shawn Matheny, Shane Matheny, Riley Outland (Chelsey), Hunter Outland (Celeste), and Cassidy Fouch (Matthew); and her great-grandchildren, Alexandra Cox, Richard Cox, Lily Outland, Forest Outland, Jacob Outland, Christian Matheny, and Kathy Matheny. The family would also like to extend special thanks to her devoted caregiver in Tucson, Olivia Perez, for her compassionate care and friendship.

Charlene was first married to Michael Feeney, and together they welcomed her son, Donald Edward Feeney. She later married Leslie Harold Matheny, with whom she shared many happy years. Together they raised their daughter, Cynthia, and Charlene embraced her role as stepmother to Les Gerald Matheny.

Professionally, Charlene worked for many years at Onorato Realty in Coal City, Illinois. After moving to Arizona, she continued her career and later retired as a Manager at Elizabeth Arden’s Maine Chance Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. She took pride in her work and the many relationships she built throughout her career.

While living in Illinois, Charlene was active in numerous social groups and organizations. She especially enjoyed boating on Goose Lake, where she and her husband built two homes over the years, creating countless cherished memories with family and friends.

Charlene had a vibrant spirit and a love for life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid bingo player and faithfully attended weekly bingo sessions well into her later years. Even during her time at Park Senior Villas – La Canada in Tucson, she continued to enjoy playing bingo, a pastime that brought her great joy and connection with others.

Charlene will be remembered for her strength and resilience. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Services will be held in Morris, Illinois, with a later date and time to be announced.

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