Jessie Hendley Mathis

Mr. Jessie Hendley Mathis, longtime Newton County resident, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, at the age of 87.

He was born in Jefferson, Georgia, on May 3, 1939, into the large family of John Mathis and Calvanie Collins Mathis. His strong work ethic was reflected in a career that included work as a welder for Speed Check Conveyor Company and more than twenty years as owner and operator of JM Enterprises.

A true jack-of-all-trades, he enjoyed staying busy and working with his hands. He loved fishing, tending his produce stand, making wine and spending time around old cars. A fan of classic westerns, especially those starring John Wayne, he also found great enjoyment in listening to records from some of his favorite artists, including Elvis Presley and Hank Williams. His legacy of hard work, skill, and commitment to family will live on for generations through the many lives he touched.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-son, Robert Alt, Jr.; brothers, Clinton Mathis, Bobby Mathis, Herman Mathis, Larry Dean Mathis, Leland David Mathis; sisters, Johnnie Ruth Mitchelle and Carolyn Horne; step-son in law, Ron Barrett; as well as his grandson, Jeremy Davis.

Survivors include his daughters, Robin Cofer (Todd), Linda Strickland (Henry), and Sandra Morgan (Adam); step-daughter, Gail Barrett; brother, O'Neal Mathis (Elaine); sisters, Joyce Hill (Larry), Patsy Autry (Robbie), and Jan Harrison (Mike); grandchildren, Jenny Piper (Earl Moses), Scott Strickland (Jessica), Sarah Morgan, Hannah Morgan, Urijah Morgan, Deeann Allen, John Cofer, Ursula Kay (Justin), Heather Davis (Chris DeBerry), Robert Eugene Alt, III, Candace Alt, Corey Alt, and Kaley Whatley (Jake); as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A graveside service will be held 3 o'clock, Monday, June 15, at Lawnwood Memorial Park, with Pastor Justin Adams officiating.  The family will receive friends from 12 - 2 PM on Monday, prior to the graveside service, at Henry Funeral Home, Lithonia.