Willard Carlton Mattox

Willard Carlton Mattox went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 11, 2026, at the age of 90.

Carlton was born on August 20, 1935, in Piney River, Virginia, to Julian and Easter Mattox.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Carolyn Mattox, who passed away only a short time before him. Anyone who knew Carlton and Carolyn knew they were inseparable. Throughout Carolyn’s illness, Carlton faithfully and lovingly cared for her as her primary caregiver, demonstrating the same devotion that characterized their marriage for nearly seven decades.

From an early age, Carlton displayed a remarkable work ethic and determination. As a member of the 4-H Club, he earned numerous awards for his outstanding livestock. He was also a gifted athlete, participating in football, basketball, and especially baseball, where he excelled. Following high school, Carlton enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Greenland. His athletic ability earned him a place on the Air Force traveling baseball team, where he received recognition and awards for his accomplishments.

Carlton was also an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. Trout fishing was a particular passion, and he felt most at home along the Piney and Tye Rivers, often returning with a creel full of fish. Hunting was another favorite pastime, and he earned a well-deserved reputation as an excellent marksman.

After completing his military service, Carlton began a career with General Electric in Lynchburg, Virginia. Through hard work and dedication, he quickly advanced into management. He retired after 37 years of service with GE/Areva-Erickson. It was during his years at General Electric that Carlton fully committed his life to Christ and began a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and faithful service.

Carlton was deeply loved not only by his family but also by his church family. He was a devoted member of Rose Union Baptist Church, where he was considered a pillar of the congregation. One of the proudest and most meaningful moments of his life was being ordained as a deacon. Over the years, he faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, choir member, committee member, and leader in numerous church ministries and associations.

His commitment to serving the Lord extended beyond his local church. Carlton was an active member of The Gideons International for many years and participated in mission work, including serving in New York City following the events of September 11, 2001, as well as on a mission trip to Mexico.

Carlton believed in caring for the body God had given him and maintained an active lifestyle throughout his life. It was common to see him taking his daily walk in the late afternoons, a habit he continued even in his final days.

Above all else, Carlton was a man of unwavering faith. He shared the Gospel whenever he had the opportunity and lived out his beliefs through both word and action. His greatest desire was for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to know and follow the Lord.

His family will remember him as a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather; a wise and godly man; a strong leader; a devoted husband; and a true “do-it-yourselfer.” He was frugal yet generous, always willing to give of his time, talents, and resources to help others.

Carlton was preceded in death by his parents, Julian and Easter Mattox; his wife, Carolyn Mattox; his sisters, Joyce (Charlie) Watson and Faye Pirnay; and his grandson, Austin Mattox.

He is survived by his children, Keith (Rita) Mattox, Diane (Rick) Crickenberger, and Scott Mattox; his grandchildren, Amy (Nick) Ellinger, Kimberly (Tristan), Kyle (Chelsey) Crickenberger, Megan (Quinton) Boyd, Hannah (Rocky) Fowler, and Hayden (Sierra) Mattox; and his great-grandchildren, Nathan, Christian, Marley, Lila, Raelynn, Brixton, Kimber, Easton, Waylon, Juliette, Maggie, Harlee, Stella, Ruby, Worth, and Oaklan.

He also leaves behind a grieving church family whom he loved dearly.

While Carlton will be greatly missed, his family rejoices in the assurance that he is now reunited with Carolyn and all those who have gone before him in faith, worshiping his Savior face to face.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 15, 2026 at Rose Union Baptist Church with Pastor John Campbell officiating.

Interment will follow in the Jonesboro Cemetery in Roseland.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 15, 2026 at Rose Union Baptist Church.

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).