John Robert "Bob" Mathews

John Robert “Bob” Mathews, 85, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026, in Sarasota, Florida.

Born in 1941 in Somerville, New Jersey, to Carol Reichel Mathews. Bob grew up in the close- knit community that would remain an important part of his life for decades. Bob graduated from Newark College of Engineering - NJIT with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and enjoyed a professional career with RCA, BellCore and Telcordia. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves.

One of Bob's greatest commitments began on his 17th birthday, when he joined the Somerville Hook and Ladder Company. What started as a young man's desire to serve his community became an extraordinary 50 years of volunteer firefighting. Bob took particular pride in serving as the tillerman, skillfully steering the rear of the massive ladder truck through the streets of Somerville. It was a responsibility requiring precision, teamwork, and perhaps a little bit of nerve! His fellow firefighters became an extended family, and his five decades of service reflected his deep loyalty to the community he called home.

Bob shared his life with two beloved wives. His first wife, of 30 years, Marie Mathews, passed away in 1995. Together they raised their daughter, Adele Mathews Hughes. Bob later married Kathy Mathews, 2002, who also preceded him in death. Despite these heartbreaking losses, Bob never lost his sense of humor, his love of family, or his ability to find joy in life.

He was a devoted father to Adele and father-in-law to her husband, David Hughes, of Selbyville, Delaware. He was also a loving and attentive grandfather to Derick Hughes and Kristen Hughes Carline.

As his family grew, so did Bob's joy. His great-grandchildren brought him tremendous happiness, and even distance couldn't keep him from being part of their lives. Rarely did two weeks pass without a family Zoom call, allowing him to watch the youngest generation grow, laugh, and discover the world. He treasured those moments with Sara and Derick Hughes children, Devin & Olivia and Kristen and John Carline’s children and JP and Weston Carline.

Bob was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Mathews Oller, in 1992. He is survived by his younger sister, Donna Mathews Bailey, and her husband, David, of Asheville, North Carolina.

Bob and Donna shared an especially close relationship that grew into a wonderful friendship over the years. They talked often, visited whenever possible, shared countless laughs, and kept their bond strong through frequent Zoom calls. They were not simply brother and sister; they were best friends.

Bob also shared a special bond with his niece, Susan Oller of Georgia, daughter of his late sister Patricia. Susan was not only a devoted niece but also an enthusiastic traveling companion, joining Bob on several cruises. When they weren't sailing the seas, they were competing on dry land in their daily Wordle challenge, each determined to solve the puzzle in the fewest guesses. Their friendly competition and shared adventures brought laughter, companionship, and joy to Bob's life.

Those who knew Bob will remember a man who was kind, spirited, funny, and wonderfully talented. An engineer by profession, he also possessed the unexpected talent of being an accomplished seamster. He loved games, enjoyed a good laugh, and valued the friendships he developed throughout his life.

Above all, Bob loved his family. He was a dedicated father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, and volunteer firefighter. His life was defined not simply by the years he lived, but by the people he loved and the community he served.

Bob will be laid to rest beside his beloved first wife, Marie, at Somerset Hills Memorial Park, Basking Ridge, NJ. A Celebration of Life will be arranged at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Somerville Hook and Ladder Company, honoring Bob's extraordinary 50 years of volunteer service. Farley Funeral Home in Venice, Florida handled the arrangements. To send a condolence or memory please visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, loyalty, and service. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered and forever loved.