Terry "Lee" Mathews

Terry “Lee” Mathews, 69, of Columbus, Ohio passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026. Born February 11, 1957, in Columbus, Ohio, Lee was a hardworking man, with a talent for building and fixing just about anything. He was always just a phone call away, ready to help with handyman tasks, roofing and carpentry projects, or being the family emergency mechanic. Lee was honest, kindhearted, empathetic and respectful to all he met. He was friendly and outgoing, always joking and laughing.

Lee was a very loving husband, motivated by his love for his wife and family. Lee was a fierce protector of those he loved, and would do anything to keep his wife and family safe.

Those who had the privilege to call him Papaw will remember him fondly through his contagious laugh, funny papaw jokes, and how supportive he always was. Papaw loved watching his grandkids/great grandkids activities; from football games for his grandsons, to marching band performances for his grandkids, dance recitals for his great grandchildren, and everything in between. Those who were blessed enough to feel loved by him, know how fiercely he loved his family and how much he loved seeing all their events and accomplishments. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather!

Lee is preceded in death by his mother Marjorie, his grandmother Kathryn, his brother and best friend Chuck, and his nephews Jimmy and Jason.

Lee is survived by his loving wife Diane, his three daughters: Mindy (Eric) Schoen, Wendy (Micah) Sheets and Andi (Jason) Brooks, his seven grandchildren: Alyssa, Anthony (Ariel), Arielle (J), Brandon (Grace), Andrew, Savannah, and Riley, his seven great grandchildren: Addilyn, Sienna, Ava, Nolan, Braxton, Collins, and Caden. Lee is also survived by his loving sister Kathy (Charlie) Cain, nieces Casey (Ricky), Shelley (Allen), Angel, great nephews Arti and Austin, his uncle and great friend Rick (Patti) and many other family and friends. Lee also leaves behind his great-grand-doggie and best four-legged friend Scout, who greatly misses her Papaw.

Our lives will never be the same, the void will always be there. Lee will forever be in our hearts, always loved, respected, appreciated and most of all NEVER FORGOTTEN.