Bro. Mike Mathena

Obituary of Michael Lee Mathena

June 11, 1960-October 3, 2025

Chauvin, LA

Bro. Mike Mathena went home to be with the Lord on October 3, 2025, at the age of 65. Mike was born in Detroit, Michigan to Harold and Doris Mathena. Mike worked many jobs over the years, but he felt called to preach in 1992. He graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1996 and faithfully served as a pastor until he retired in 2025.

In 1981, Mike met Teri (Talley) Mathena. After a six day engagement, they were married 0n August 1st of that year, beginning a journey that lasted over fourty years. They were blessed with two daughters Lee Anne (Kyle) Tadlock and Darcy (Daniel) Bingham.

Mike is also survived by his brother, Greg Mathena, four grandchildren, Hal, Alex, Annaleigh and Kylee, who brought him great joy, and his uncles, Roger and Wendell.

He was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Michael Mathena; his parents and his brother, Thomas Mathena.

Mike loved people and lived the gospel that he preached. He was generous with his time and treasures and was always available with a helping hand or a listening ear. Almost as much as he loved the Lord, he loved fishing, especially when he could take the grandchildren out on the boat to fish with him. His favorite fishing buddy was his wife, and he loved to share pictures of their fishing competition with all their family and friends. He also enjoyed hunting and watching, or at least falling asleep to, golf and football on TV. He was a Saints fan for many, many years, including the ones when it was painful.

A visitation honoring Mike will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Grand Caillou Baptist beginning at 2:00p.m. until the Celebration of Life at 4:00p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Grand Caillou Baptist Church.