Freddie Dale "Fred" Mathews, age 77, of Wellston, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, from the Highland Oaks Health Center in McConnelsville, Ohio.  He was born April 14, 1948 in Piketon, Ohio to the late Ralph F. "Alfred" Mathews and Mary Finley Woods Mathews.  Fred was a veteran of the United States Army who served during the Vietnam War.  For his service to his country and being wounded by enemy action, Fred received a Purple Heart medal.  Fred worked for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections for several years and was a Master Mechanic.  He was a member of World Outreach Ministries and loved to spread the word of Jesus.  The good Lord broke the mold when he made Fred, because he knew he could only handle one!  Fred was open, honest, and had no problem telling you what he thought; but he was also a loving father, kindhearted and would do anything to help his family and friends.  Fred will be greatly missed by his family and friends and will never be forgotten!  He is survived by his children April Maynard (Curtis) of Ironton, Freddie Mathews, Jr. of Jackson, Michael Mathews of Wellston, and Karrie Lansing (Michael) of Wellston; sister, Sue Williams of Jackson; along with 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Besides his parents, Fred was preceded in death by his brothers, Dewey Cline and Ralph Mathews; sister, Elda Mae Parsons; brother-in-law, Kenneth Williams; and daughter-in-law, Jamie Mathews.  Calling hours will be Tuesday, December 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home.  Funeral service will follow the calling hours at 1 p.m. with Pastor Rob Ervin officiating.  Burial, with military honors  will be in the Mount Latham Cemetery in Buchanan, Ohio.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.