Penn Matthias

Reflections of Life

On Thursday, December 10, 1942, Edmund and Beatrice Matthias welcomed into the world their beloved baby boy, Penn Stevenson Matthias. From his earliest days, Penn’s life was anchored in faith. His Christian foundation was nurtured at The Anglican Church and that grounding was reflected in his favorite scripture from Ecclesiastes 3:1–2, reminding us that there is a season and a purpose for everything under heaven.

Penn received his early education at Antigua Boys School in St. John’s, Antigua. As a young boy, he was given a bracelet—small in size, but rich in meaning. It was one of the very few possessions he carried with him when he came to America, and remarkably, he continued to wear it throughout his life, a quiet symbol of remembrance, resilience, and where he came from.

On Wednesday, December 10, 1986, Penn married the love of his life, Mozell Matthias, beginning a union that would span nearly four decades of love, partnership, and devotion.  As an adult, Penn found his greatest joy in family. He cherished time with his wife and children, delighted in cruising and traveling together, and took pleasure in life’s simple treasures—like his lottery tickets and a good meal of shrimp or fish. His favorite movie was Lean On Me, a story that reflected his belief in perseverance, community, and standing strong for what matters most. Those who knew him well could often hear him say his favorite phrase, “Back to the drawing board,” a reflection of his thoughtful, steady approach to life.

Penn devoted twenty-one years of faithful service to Bay City Independent School District. He cared deeply for the buildings entrusted to him, but even more so for the people inside them. Through his diligence, warmth, and quiet pride in his work, he helped create an environment where students, teachers, and staff felt cared for and welcomed.  He truly loved the school and the community it represented.

Outside of work, Penn was a die-hard Houston Texans fan, cheering them on with unwavering loyalty.

Above all, Penn will be remembered for his kindness, his gentle spirit, and his quiet strength. He loved deeply and gave freely, living a life of purpose centered on family. Through his warm smile, steady presence, and thoughtful guidance, he made those around him feel safe, supported, and deeply loved. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he so faithfully cherished.

On Thursday, January 22, 2026, Penn peacefully transitioned from this life.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Mozell Matthias; his children: Debbie Aska-Graham, Joy Ann Matthias, Noel Matthias, Kim Matthias, Aretha Orise, and Corey Randle; his grandchildren: Ann Marie, Kaleem, Andrew, Jalauryn, Trinity, Madison, and CJ along with a host of extended family, friends, and loved ones who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

We take comfort in knowing that Penn’s life was rooted in faith and that his earthly journey has given way to eternal rest. Anchored in the promises of God, we trust that he now rests in peace, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him including his parents, Edmund and Beatrice Matthias, and his siblings: Evette, Ronald, Darling, Fitzsmorris, Condacy, Rose Mary, Ted, Jackie, and Billy. Though we grieve, we do not grieve without hope, for we know for believers, that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Penn’s life was well lived, his love was deeply felt, and his legacy will continue to shine through generations.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Penn Matthias, please visit our floral store.