Barbara Ann Mathis

Barbara Ann Mathis, age 82, of Hiawassee passed away peacefully on January 5, 2025. Barbara was born on January 31, 1943 to the late Herman and Bonnie (Nicholson) Kimsey in Hiawassee, Georgia. She was a woman of devout faith and a longtime member of Macedonia Baptist Church. Barbara married her husband, Jack Mathis, in 1959 and spent 34 years together before he passed away in 1993. She later met her longtime partner of 15 years, Vaughn Green. Barbara had a successful career as a ward clerk at Towns County Hospital before becoming the first woman to serve as mayor for Hiawassee to which she served for 22 years. Barbara was an outgoing and sociable woman who loved people, and going out to eat with her family and friends. Barbara’s last impression within the city of Hiawassee will forever leave an unforgettable mark within the town’s history, and she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack Mathis; and her brother, Lawson Kimsey. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Ricky and Robin Mathis; brother and sister-in-law, Larry and Marylynne Kimsey; grandchildren, Heather Mathis, and Hannah (Drew) Gladfelter; and great-grandchildren, Brynn, Briggs, and Benton.