Avis Celia Mathison, Active Free Methodist Church Member, Dies at 90

Avis Celia Mathison, who passed away on September 27, 2008, at the age of 90, was a devoted member of the Free Methodist Church. Born on September 18, 1918, in Hartford, South Dakota, she graduated from Humboldt High School in 1936 and married Engvald Mathison in February 1938. Throughout her life, she remained deeply involved in her faith community, serving as a Sunday School teacher for nearly five decades and acting as a lay minister.

Mathison’s commitment to her church extended beyond her teaching and ministry. When the Free Methodist Church of Humboldt dissolved, she took ownership of its building and made it available for use by other Christian groups in the area. This act of generosity reflected her dedication to fostering community and spiritual growth. She also played a key role in organizing Bible School for her grandchildren and their friends during the summer months.

In addition to her spiritual contributions, Mathison had a variety of personal interests. She was known for her love of gardening, collecting bells, owls, and Avon perfume bottles, and for feeding birds and squirrels in her yard. She also enjoyed traveling, including a trip to Norway with her granddaughter, Sherri, and a journey to Israel, Jordan, and Egypt shortly after her son, Arthur, passed away in 1985.

Mathison is remembered by her family and friends for her kindness, faith, and the impact she had on those around her. She is survived by her two sisters, Ada Lofswold and Nelvina Boyd; her daughters-in-law, Sharon Mathison and Elaine Mathison; eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Engvald, and four children. Her legacy continues through the lives she touched and the community she helped build.

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