Stephen Alexander Mathis

Obituary

In Loving Memory of Stephen Alexander Mathis

April 28, 1970 – October 6, 2024

Stephen Alexander Mathis, lovingly known as Steve to his adoptive family, and Alex to his birth family, was born Alexander Thomas on April 28, 1970, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He passed away peacefully of natural causes on October 6, 2024, in Wilcox, Arizona, at the age of 54.

Steve is survived by his wife of 19 years, Nikki Mathis, and their beloved son, Rakeem Mathis, both of Coldwater, Michigan; his daughter, Destanie Beeman, of Bossier, Louisiana; and his cherished adoptive mother and stepfather, Elaine Marie Crouch Jerrils and William Jerrils Sr., of Vero Beach, Florida.

He will be deeply missed by his siblings, Julie Mathis Dodson of Arcadia, Indiana; Laurie Mathis McDonald (husband Kirk McDonald) of Wilmington, North Carolina; Gregory Kardatzke (wife Alejandra DeLuna) of Wimauma, Florida; and Kerrie Kardatzke Fuenfhausen (husband Matthew Fuenfhausen) of Asheville, North Carolina. His nieces and nephews—Dustin Withrow, Brianna Reeder, Rachel McDonald, Carly McDonald, Emily DeLuna, Elizabeth Fuenfhausen, and Oliver Fuenfhausen—will fondly remember the light he brought into their lives.

In 2018, after 45 years apart, Steve experienced the joy of reuniting with his biological family. This heartfelt reunion included his siblings, Paul Brantley and Kelley Alcaraz, as well as members of the Hardy and Thomas families of Fort Wayne, Indiana. It was a defining and treasured chapter in his life.

Steve now rests with those who preceded him: his mother, Zelma Mae Thomas; father, Frederick B. Thomas; sister, Quonda Hackner; and adoptive father, William H. Mathis Jr.

Steve spent his childhood in Anderson, Indiana, where he attended Park Place Church of God. Known for his infectious humor and zest for life, Steve found joy in dancing, playing the drums at church, making others laugh, and traveling. He loved silly jokes and pranks, and his laugh was truly contagious. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, never meeting a stranger, and was truly in his element while working with the carnival.

To those who knew him, Steve was a source of joy, laughter, and warmth—a man with a kind heart who could light up any room. His memory will be forever cherished by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

A celebration of Steve's life will occur on July 27, 2025, from 1 - 4 pm EDT, at Park Place Church of God, Anderson, IN, in the Newberry Room (old Pioneer Room). The family welcomes memories and condolences, which can be sent to JulieADodson@sbcglobal.net. These tributes will be shared with the entire family as they honor and remember the beautiful legacy of Stephen Alexander Mathis.

Rest in peace, dear Steve. Your laughter, kindness, and love will remain in our hearts forever.

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