Barbara Jean Mathews

Barbara Jean Mathews, the daughter of Leroy Francis and Grace Elaine (Gipper) Mathews was born on July 17, 1965, in Denison, Iowa. She was baptized at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Charter Oak. A group of researchers conducted a Patterning trial for the Mathews family. The family spent a lot of time traveling to Omaha and Iowa City to receive extra special care for Barbara. The community also came together and volunteered their help to Barb and her family.

Barb lived at home on the farm until she was 11 years old. It was at that time she moved to Tommy Dale in Sioux City and lived there for four years. She then moved back home with her parents for a year. The family found Faith, Hope and Charity in Storm Lake and Barb lived there until she was 21 years old. They were able to help Barb start walking and she went on to participate in the Special Olympics. On April 9, 1986, Barbie moved to Courage Homes in Sioux City where she made her home and expanded her family and friends.

Barb enjoyed country and gospel music. She also enjoyed listening to nature sounds. She liked being read and sung to in quiet voice. She was a people watcher, strong willed and she knew what she wanted and when she wanted it. She loved her dad, especially when he talked like Donald Duck to her. She would just light up, laugh and smile. She enjoyed spending time with her special friend Karen. When Barb would have a bad day, Karen would sit by her and calm her down. From the day they met, Karen and Barb had a special bond.

Barb passed away at Courage Homes Building Two in Sioux City, Iowa at the age of 57 years and seven months.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Grace Mathews; brother, Larry Mathews; and sister, Debbie Mathews. She is survived by her brother, Steve (Linda) Mathews of Mountain Grove, Missouri; sister, Kathy Mathews (Scott Cuen) of Harrisonville, Missouri; seven nieces and nephews; 15 great-nieces and great-nephews; two aunts: Hazel Hultman of Sumner and Marcella Gipper of Waterloo; and many other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 21, 2022, at Huebner Funeral Home in Charter Oak. Her graveside service will follow and be held at 12:15 p.m. at St. Boniface Cemetery in Charter Oak.

Memorials may be directed to:
Courage Homes Building Two
5945 Morningside Avenue
Sioux City, Iowa 51106