Howard Arthur Mattison

Howard Arthur Mattison, age 68, of Elmira, New York, passed away peacefully at his home in Ocala, Florida, on June 18, 2026.

Howard was born on May 18, 1958, in Elmira, New York, to the late Howard and Joan Mattison. He graduated from Southside High School in Elmira, New York, before proudly answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army.

In July 1998, Howard married Robin Mattison, in Gallatin, Tennessee. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, family, and cherished memories.

Following his military service and relocation to Florida, Howard worked as a skilled woodworker before beginning a career as a mechanic, where he remained until his retirement.

Mr. Mattison was a proud veteran of the United States Army, last serving with the 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment at Fort Drum, New York. During his military career, he served his country in the Persian Gulf during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, with the Multinational Force and Observers in the Sinai Peninsula, and during the Somalia conflict. His dedicated service earned him numerous military honors, including the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Good Conduct Medal, Jungle Expert Badge, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Multinational Force and Observers Medal, Expert Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, and the Army Commendation Medal. He was proud to have served his country and carried that same sense of loyalty, dedication, and honor throughout his life.

Howard was an active member of the American Legion Post 148 in Riverview, Florida, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Joan Mattison.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Robin Mattison; his son, Howard Michael Mattison (Melissa); his daughters, Christina Horne (Kyle) and Chelsea Stevens (Wesley); his stepson, Mickey Joseph; his brothers, Ernest Mattison and Ralph Mattison; his sisters, Donna Moon and Debra Stephens; and his cherished grandchildren, Bryce Mattison, Preston Mattison, Skylar Mattison, Lilliana Stevens, Gunnar Stevens, Wyatt Horne, and Ellie Horne. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Howard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose life touched countless people. He will be remembered for his quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, the stories he loved to tell, and the deep love he had for his family and friends. The memories he created and the lives he touched will be cherished forever by all who knew and loved him.

Although our hearts are heavy with his passing, we celebrate a life of honor, service, hard work, laughter, and unconditional love. Howard faithfully served his country, devoted himself to his family, and leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and love that will never be forgotten.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home & Crematory of Ocala, FL. Interment with military honors will follow at Florida’s National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL.

The Mattison family sincerely appreciates the love, prayers, and support they have received during this difficult time and asks that you continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

May he rest in eternal peace, knowing his duty has been faithfully fulfilled and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.