Leon J. Mathis went to be with our Lord on March 23, 2022, at the age of 73.

He is preceded in death by Herlinda Mathis, Aurora Mathis, Ray Mathis, Norma Mathis, Alexandria Vanbrandt, and Ray Flores-Poblano.

He is survived by his wife Sandy McBride; children, Laura Mathis-Orozco (Armando), Gloria Mathis (Jhon Vanbrandt), Herlinda M. Castillo (Rudy), Jonathan Mathis (Samantha Vega), Tina Schimonskey; grandchildren, Aaron (LaTerrie), Stefani (Nahin), Armanda (Jeremy), Kristie (Art), Valerie, Jordan, Krystal (Jesse), Christian, Isabella, Daniel, David, Dylan, Brandi, and Kaylee; great-grandchildren, Jayshawn, Isaiah, Aariel, Celeste, Kalev, Kensie, Sylus, Ezra, Yadiel, and Emily; brother, George Mathis (Dorothy); sister in laws, Beatrice Montejano (Henry), Sylvia Arzaga, Gloria Torres (Henry); brother in law, Nick Pinales (Anita), in addition to extended family and friends.

Leon was born on December 17, 1948, in San Antonio, Texas. In 1967 at just 19 he enlisted into the United States Army. He proudly served for the next four years becoming an E5 until 1971 when he completed active service. The next two years (1971-1972) were spent inactive Army. Leon went on to graduate with his associate of applied science in 1979 from St. Philips College. Leon was dedicated to all his endeavors. His first job was at Nix's alignment where he spent 10 years. He also worked 25 years at Cavender Oldsmobile as a front-end alignment technician. After 14 years with VIA as a mechanic, Leon officially retired. For 8 years (1991-1999) he was a CYO Coach at St. Dominics. He enjoyed giving back to his community and was a regular volunteer for 10 years at the annual Raul Jimenez thanksgiving Dinner.

Leons passion was racing and one of his greatest joys was racing his 56 Chevy. He enjoyed car shows, NASCAR, and just working on cars. He found pleasure in the simple things such as enjoying nature during his camping and fishing trips. Leon could build guns and was a pretty skilled shooter at the gun range. Always ready to go, he liked traveling on Amtrak Train routes.

Leon was a caring soul and was a huge advocate for pets. He rescued animals and was a part of the San Antonio feral cat coalition. He especially loved his family. He and his wife Sandy shared a 12-year adventure and marriage before his passing. His children and grandchildren were all so special to him and the hope is they always remember that.

He inspired people around him to be better individuals. His capacity for generosity knew no bounds. He was also someone who would help anyone in need with support, encouragement, and guidance. He devoted his time to family. Those times will exist in our memories, and will be cherished forever. We loved his caring ways, and he will be deeply missed.

There are no words that can express the feelings in our hearts. Thank you for your prayers and support during this difficult time. Your shared memories, comforting condolences and gestures of love are truly appreciated.

A visitation will be held at Castillo Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a Rosary to be recited at 6:00 pm. A funeral mass will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Thursday April 21, 2022, at 9:00 am with interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery at 11:00 am with full military honors.