Charles Mathis

Charles Mathis “Grand Chas” was a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and extraordinary talent whose life touched countless others through service, music, and unwavering devotion to family and community. Born with a natural gift for music, he learned to play the piano by ear before refining his craft under the instruction of Ms. Lila B. Cleveland at Brewer High School. This love for music became a lifelong calling.

Throughout the years, Charles served as a musician for numerous gospel groups and choirs, including The Southern Travelers; Rev. Campbell and the Wonder Boys; The Lonesome Travelers; Eartha Gaskin and Little Charles; Steward Gaskin and The Sonics; the choirs of Beulah Baptist Church; The Mathis Sisters; The Hart Singers; The El’ Dion’s in Wildflecken, Germany; The Flint Hill Baptist Church; Norris Turner and the Golden Stars of Greenwood, SC; and many gospel choruses throughout the Greenwood area. He was also a dedicated pianist for countless funerals and community events. His efforts were instrumental in securing the first piano and organ for Beulah Baptist Church, where his musical ministry blessed generations.

A proud graduate of Brewer High School’s Class of 1957, Charles went on to serve his country as a member of the United States Army and later the U.S. Army Reserve. After his military service, He previously worked at Jarvis cutting tools and Cross Creek Mall and built a long and respected career at South Side Junior High and Westview Middle School, retiring as the Head Environmental Technician.

Charles lived a life grounded in service. He was a former Deacon, a member of the Five Point Community Club, a former member of St. Charles Masonic Lodge and the Mystic Shriners, and an active volunteer with Greenwood Community Initiatives. Though often quiet, he was a servant leader whose presence was steady, dependable, and meaningful. He alternated lawn care responsibilities with neighbors, volunteered with community organizations, and advocated for family and friends whenever he was needed.

His talents extended well beyond music. Charles was a skilled gardener, a devoted researcher of family history, a craftsman, and a legendary slush maker. He was affectionately known as a “walking dictionary” for his vast vocabulary and love of debate. His smoked turkey became a cherished family tradition, beloved by all who tasted it.

Family was the center of Charles’s world. Education held a special place in his heart. He strongly encouraged continuing education and celebrated every academic or professional milestone achieved by his family. He taught his children and grandchildren how to drive and remained a steady foundation for every generation. He was a praying husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, nephew, cousin, son-in-law, son, neighbor, friend, and co-worker—roles he carried with dignity, devotion, and grace.

Charles Mathis leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, music, and love. His life was a testimony to humility, kindness, and purpose. His presence will be deeply missed, but the beauty of his spirit will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know him.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, the late P.C. Mathis and the late Anica Chiles Mathis three brothers, Howard Mathis, B.J. Mathis Sr. and Bennie Mathis Sr.; seven sisters, Minnie Mathis Hart, Peggy Mathis Turner, Sarah Mathis Klugh, Dorothy Mammie Lyn Mathis, Marie Mathis, Susie Mathis, and Nannie Mathis Fisher.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Matilda Mathis of the home; one son, Cleveland (Sandra) Caldwell of Malta of Europe; three daughters, Natalie (Deshon) Tinch of Greenwood, MiGina (Tracey) Timpson of Pelzer, and Carla (Ashenhiem) Malcolm of Queens, NY; one sister, Virginia Watson of Greenwood; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends who mourn his passing.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 3:00 P.M., at Beulah Baptist Church, with Rev. William Booker, officiating. Burial will follow at Evening Star Cemetery. Viewing will be held Friday, November 21, 2025, from 1–6 P.M. at Robinson and Son Mortuary, Inc. Online condolences may be sent to robson@nctv.com. The family is at the home, 109 Sycamore Drive. Services have been entrusted to Robinson and Son Mortuary, Inc.

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