Elaine D. Mathias

Elaine D. Mathias, age 74 of Mattoon, IL peacefully passed away Friday, May 9, 2025, at Mattoon Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. A funeral service in her honor will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, May 15, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 1804 S. 9th Street, Mattoon, IL 61938; Reverend Dennis Strawn will officiate. A committal service will immediately follow in Rest Haven Cemetery. The visitation for friends and family will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the church. Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938, is in charge of services. Elaine was born on August 11, 1950, in Mattoon, IL to the late Albert D. and Lois C. (Crum) Bohlen. She married Gary Mathias on October 2, 1971, at the First Baptist Church in Mattoon, IL. She is survived by her beloved husband of fifty-three years, Gary, who resides in Mattoon, IL; precious daughter, Mindy Elaine Mathias and husband James Manipud of Sacramento, CA; precious son, Matt Bohlen Mathias and wife DeAnna Mathias of Terre Haute, IN; special legacy grandsons, Lincoln and Harrison Mathias of Terre Haute, IN; sisters, Georgia Ryan and husband Harold of Greenup, IL, and Lisa Bohlen-Admire of Morrisville, NC. She is preceded in death by her sister, Kathleen Dauterive. Elaine graduated from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL where she earned her master’s degree in special education. Her passion for education led her to a fulfilling career as a Pre Vocational Coordinator at Eastern Illinois Area Special Education (EIASE), impacting countless lives with her dedication before her retirement in 2011. Beyond her professional endeavors, Elaine was an active and vibrant member of the Mattoon community. She was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Mattoon, where she not only worshipped but also served as a Deaconess and volunteered her time at Vacation Bible School. Her commitment to her faith and church was unwavering and inspired many. Elaine's love for social gatherings and community service was evident through her involvement with the Junior Women's Club and The Red Hat Society. Her role as the Queen of Teatime and her presence at the Red Hatter's Hat and Chat meetings will be deeply missed, as she always brought joy and laughter to those around her. As a water lover, Elaine made waves as an Aqua Aerobics Instructor at the Mattoon Area Family YMCA. Her energy and encouraging spirit made her classes a popular and uplifting environment for her fellow mermaids. Elaine's dedication to her children and grandchildren was evident through her hands-on involvement in their education and extracurricular activities. She was a familiar face and a supportive presence as a Room Mother and Girl Scout Leader. She served as President of both the Gifted Program PTA and the Band Boosters at Mattoon High School. Elaine's legacy is one of love, service, and education. She touched the lives of many, from her students who she guided with patience and wisdom, to her friends and family whom she loved with all her heart. Her spirit, characterized by her infectious smile and unwavering positivity, will continue to live on in the memories of those who had the privilege to know her. Memorials in her honor may be made to the Mattoon Area Family YMCA, 221 N. 16th Street, Mattoon, IL 61938 or the First Baptist Church of Mattoon. Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a virtual in her honor or share a memory with the family.

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Elaine D. Mathias

August 11, 1950 - May 9, 2025