Larry D. Mathus, age 78 of Centralia, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.
Larry was born on June 8, 1947, in Centralia, the son of Ray and Mona (Duncan) Mathus. He married Cheryl Boyll, and they later divorced. He married Viola A. Powell on June 9, 1994, in Nashville, IL, and she survives in Centralia.
In addition to his wife Viola Mathus, he is survived by his five children, Anthony Mathus and wife Sandi of Tampa, FL, Lachel Mathus of Centralia, David Eddings and wife Jackie of Nashville, Barbara Hasenfuss of Titusville, FL, and Gayle Hanks and husband Tim of Cabot, AR; six grandsons; four granddaughters; and twenty-one great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Van Mathus; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Henry and Edith Powell.
Larry graduated from Centralia High School with the Class of 1965. He enlisted in the United States Navy that same year, serving from 1965 to 1969 during the Vietnam War with decorated service. In May of 2025, he was honored to participate in the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.
Throughout his working years, Larry was employed at Leaf Candy Factory and Littelfuse in Centralia, and later at Walgreens in Mt. Vernon, retiring in June of 2014. He was an avid crappie fisherman who loved taking family and friends out on his boat and teaching them how to fish—especially his great-grandson, John. In addition to fishing, he enjoyed making his own lures as well as carving waterfowl from wood, hobbies he took great pride in. Larry was also a member of Crossroads Church in Centralia.
In keeping with Larry’s wishes, a private service will be held at a later date. Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family. Memorial contributions can be made to Crossroads Church in Centralia and can be received at Crouse Funeral Home. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com
