Garry Leroy Mathes, 85, of Glenwood, Missouri, passed away Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Boone Hospital, Columbia, Missouri.

The son of Roy and Allene (James) Mathes, he was born February 27, 1940, in Kirksville, Missouri. Garry was united in marriage on November 6, 1960, in Greentop, Missouri, to Alice Kay Uber who survives.

Also surviving are one son, David (Laurie) Mathes of Downingtown, Pennsylvania, two daughters, Janet (Larry) Reed of Kirksville, Missouri, Julie Boyer of Gorin, Missouri; seven grandchildren Nigel (Laura) Mathes, Gavin Mathes, Brooke Eskridge, Stephanie Reed, Tyler Reed, Chris (Michelle) Boyer and Amanda (Ben) Hall; and five great-grandchildren Carter & Liam Eskridge, Wesley Boyer, Fletcher & Madeline Hall. He is also survived by sisters, Barbara Miller, Anita (Cliston) Barker, and sister-in-law Kathy Sue (Jeff) Wever along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Garry was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Roylene Barker, Linda Lonberger & Brenda Mason, son-in-law Jeff Boyer, and sister-in-law Judy Anne Westhoff.

He graduated from Kirksville High School with the class of 1958.

Garry dedicated his life to family, farming, community and educating future farmers through FFA & 4-H members. He lived every day sharing his passion for family and instilling the value of hard work, determination and perseverance with family and friends.

He produced beef cattle, sheep, hogs, corn, soybeans, and hay for over 65 years. He was also passionate about raising and training Border Collies and Quarter Horses.

Garry was involved with local, regional, state, and national organizations representing the interests of livestock producers as an executive leader, visionary, and influencer in advancing the livestock industry. Above all other agricultural endeavors, he loved raising and showing sheep and promoting lamb to everyone he met. He was active not only locally but also represented Missouri as a Regional Director for the American Sheep Industry Association nationally.

His dedication was acknowledged in the numerous recognitions Garry received during his lifetime. This included the University of Missouri Extension Farm Management Award, the Governor’s Advisory Council on Agriculture Outstanding Service Award, Honorary State FFA Degree, Missouri Agricultural Volunteers Award and the AT Still Spirit Award honoring Kirksville community leaders.

In addition, he was instrumental in establishing the Missouri Livestock Symposium and served as committee chair for 25 years.

Garry most enjoyed spending time with his family, showing sheep at the Missouri State Fair, training his Border Collies and listening to country music.

Public visitation will be held Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the chapel of Travis-Noe Funeral Home in Kirksville.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 31, 2025 at Travis-Noe Funeral Home with interment following at East Center Cemetery.

Pallbearers: David Mathes, Nigel Mathes, Gavin Mathes, Tyler Reed, Chris Boyer & Ben Pulliam
Honorary Pallbearers: Cliston Barker, Jace Galloway, Zac Erwin, Colin Osborne and Nikole Pulliam

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in memory of Garry to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Donations may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O.Box 306, Kirksville, Missouri, 63501.