DAVID MICHAEL MATHEWS

David Michael Mathews, age 71, of Panama City, passed away on Saturday, October 16, 2010 at his home. He was devoted to his God, his family and friends, and to his Nation. He loved the Smokey Mountains, camping and hiking. He was born in Tuscaloosa, AL; but grew up in Panama City where he returned for retirement in 2004. He valued his service to his country in the U.S. Army and enjoyed careers in insurance, investigation, and banking. He also served his God as an ordained Episcopal Priest. He was a member of the Panama City Lions Club and attended St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. He is remembered for his kindness and warmth and for "keeping the faith" through adversity and joyful blessings.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ormand and Charlotte Mathews of Alabama.

He is survived by his wife, Merial Sale Mathews; their three children, David Mathews Jr. of Alabama, Louise Corscadden (with Scott) of Alabama, John Mathews (with Kristy) of Maryland; six grandchildren; one great grandchild and related family. These are David Jr's daughter, Rebecca James (with Alex) and their son, Michael and Rebecca's mother, Karen Mathews; Louise and Scott's son Christopher; John's daughters, Natalie, Julia and Emily and their mother, Tiffany Mathews; John and Kristy's son, Brady.

Other family survivors include numerous relatives with close relationships including, but not limited to his uncle, Bill Worthington, and cousins, Ms. Susan Downs, Ms. Tina Ayer, Ms. Shirley Batemen and Rufus Dobbins.

Panama City family survivors include in-laws, Tom and Gerry Sale, Eleanor Ann and Mandeville Smith, Douglas and Melissa Sale and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 23, 2010 at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 1608 Bakers Court, Panama City, FL (church fronts on West Beach Drive). Friends and family are invited to a reception in the parish hall following the service.

Wilson Funeral Home