Charles W Mathis Jr

Charles W. Matthis Jr. of Bella Vista, Ark., died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2012, at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Ark. He was born on March 28, 1932, in Louisville, Ky., to Charles W. Matthis and Mildred Alma Martin Matthis. He was a graduate in physics and mathematics from University of Louisville, Ky., and was in the Honorary Society for Physics. He joined Civil Air Patrol in 1950, gaining rank of colonel. In 1971, he was commander of the 1st Annual NCR Cadet Staff College. He was employed by Boeing Aircraft Corp in Wichita, Kan., and Huntsville, Ala., from 1958 to 1995. He was a ham operator for many years and also carried small aircraft pilot license. He was a volunteer for hospice. He was a member of the Village Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Mae Semler Matthis. He is survived by sister, Barbara Anne Matthis Todd and husband, Wendell; brother, Earl Matthis and wife, Della; caregiver, Scott Campbell; stepdaughters, Cynthia Heer (Mike), Celia Blair (Danny); stepson, Craig Headrick; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; special cousin, Melaney Matthis; many nieces, nephews, cousins; and his beloved bird, Buffey. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012, with funeral service at 11 a.m. at the Bella Vista Funeral Home Chapel, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, Ark., with the Rev. Dr. William Bowen officiating. Burial will be at the Bella Vista Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Road, Springdale, AR 72762. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.