Lynn Richard Mathie

Lynn Richard Mathie, 87, of St. George, Utah, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, entrepreneur, athlete, and faithful disciple of Jesus Christ. Above all, Lynn loved his family deeply and lived his life with an unwavering testimony of the Savior and the Plan of Salvation.

Lynn was born and raised in North Ogden, Utah, to Vern William and Isabelle Clay Mathie. He was the youngest of seven children, all of whom preceded him in death. From an early age, Lynn developed a love for sports. He excelled in both basketball and football at Weber High School, and his talent on the football field earned him a full-ride scholarship to Brigham Young University.

Lynn’s competitive spirit and love of sports stayed with him throughout his entire life. He couldn’t wait to turn 50 so he could begin competing in the Huntsman World Senior Games. Once he reached that milestone, he played basketball in the Games every year for the next 30 years. He loved the competition, the friendships, and, most of all, being out on the court. Basketball remained one of the great joys of his life and was a perfect reflection of his determination, energy, and competitive nature.

While attending BYU, Lynn met the love of his life, Betty Maughan. Their love story continued even when Lynn was called to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in New South Wales, Australia. Along with proselyting, he had the privilege to play for the famed “Mormon Yankee’s” basketball team. After returning home, Lynn and Betty were married on January 5, 1962, beginning a remarkable marriage that would span 64 years.

Lynn completed his bachelor’s degree at BYU while continuing to play football. After graduation, he began a career with Carnation, Huntsman Container, and Dolco. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to venture out on his own, building several businesses throughout the years. His work took Lynn and Betty to many places, including Illinois, Ohio, and several homes throughout California, before ultimately bringing them back to their beloved home state of Utah. 

Lynn was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully throughout his life in many callings, including as a bishop twice and in a stake presidency. His faith was not simply something he talked about, it was the foundation of his life. His testimony never wavered, he trusted in the Savior, and found great peace in the knowledge that families can be together forever.

Lynn’s greatest earthly blessing was his family. He adored his wife, Betty, and remained devoted to her throughout their 64 years of marriage. Together they created a loving family and a legacy that will continue through generations.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Maughan Mathie, and their children: Shari Merrell (Scott), Dana Engemann (Andrew), Mike Mathie, and Jodi Gardner (Tim).

His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Geoff Merrell (Brie), Sydnee Pope (Blake), Brady Merrell (Jenna), Chase Merrell (Phoebe), Haley Burr (Chris), Cole Engemann (Lydia), Cade Engemann (Jessica), Wyatt Engemann (Emily), Jake Mathie, Avri Mortenson (Austyn), Clay Gardner (Madi), Brigham Gardner (Mayen), Lincoln Gardner (Lexi), and Tatum Gardner, along with 27 great-grandchildren and two more on the way.

His family finds comfort in knowing that his life was well lived and that, because of the gospel he loved and believed in so deeply, this is not goodbye, it is only goodbye for now.

Funeral services will be held Monday, September 21, 2026, at the Green Valley Stake Center, 511 S Valley View Dr, St George, UT 84770. A viewing will be held from 9:00–10:45 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.