Harold Mathias Obituary

Harold Lloyd Mathias, 99, of Birmingham, IA passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the Jefferson County Health Care Center in Fairfield, IA. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024, at the Zion Bible Church near Douds, IA with Pastor Phil Ross officiating. Burial will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery in Birmingham, IA immediately following. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and last until the time of service. Memorial contributions in Harold's honor may be directed to the Zion Bible Church or to Birmingham Fire and mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Harold Lloyd Mathias was born on August 15, 1925, in rural Birmingham, IA to Leonard and Frankie Carr Mathias. Harold's early education was at the West Union Country School before completing his schooling at Douds High School. His work ethic started at an early age as he worked as a mechanic during High School. Upon graduation he began working as a farmhand for local farmers and especially enjoyed his winters working for Veryl Kerr at the sawmill. During this time his passion for the farm took hold. He married the love of his life, Waunita Jones, on June 10, 1951, and together they purchased the farm that they would call home together for the next 66 years. They became the proud parents of two boys, Jim and John. Harold was a lifelong farmer and worked beside Wuanita caring for the land and the animals. Agriculture was Harold's life, and he loved farming with his Allis-Chalmers tractors. He stayed active as a farmer as long as his body would allow. Harold was devoted to his faith and was a longtime member of the Zion Bible Church. He will be missed by his family and his many friends.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Waunita (2017); a grandson Ryan Mathias and step grandson, Craig Smith.
Left to share his story are his children, Jim (Donna) Mathias of Birmingham, IA and John (Katrina) Mathias of Batavia, IA; a grandson, Tyler Mathias; two step grandchildren, Luke Smith, and Randy Frail; five great grandchildren, Xavier, Bentley, Ryan, Kane, and Hunter; eight step great grandchildren, Paityn, Devyn, Mia, Kira, Riley, Chloe, Lily, and Destiny, as well as many extended family and friends.
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