Ronald Kent Mathis, 77, of Rio Hondo, TX passed away Friday, April 19, 2024, at his residence with his loving wife by his side. He is preceded in death by Lt. Colonel Bill and June Mathis; and wife, Cinda Mathis. Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Gayle Mathis; daughters, De’Ann Dreyer (Jason), Terri Soll (Brent), Sherri Jones (Rickey), Danielle Michaels (Bobby); brother, Greg Mathis (Sherril); 8 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Kent was a two-war Veteran serving in Vietnam and during Desert Storm stationed in Kuwait. Upon his return from the Middle East, Kent was assigned to the 35th Division Rear Operations Cell in Kansas City, Missouri. With the influence of some new "brothers," Kent became enthralled with canoeing on many Missouri Rivers and Streams. He loved the outdoors and spending time in peace and tranquility. Kent enjoyed annual events with his friends too. Super Bowl Weekend at the Lake, the spring trip to the winery and the annual float trip affectionately known as the DOFT (Dude Only Float Trip) over Columbus Day weekend. Kent loved his brothers. Everywhere he went, he met a new "brother." From his tour in Nam to his final days in the Valley with his Combat Veterans Motorcycle Club, Kent was special to everyone with whom he came into contact, we are all Kent's brothers. There are Soldiers around the world who are better men and women thanks to Kent's friendship, leadership, and disposition. Kent had one hero in life. His Father, LTC(R) William (Bill) Mathis was everything to Kent. Bill was a three war Veteran (WWII, Korea, & Vietnam). Kent's love for God, Family and Country can all be attributed to "the Colonel" and his mother, "Mama Colonel." As Kent now leaves this world, we find comfort in knowing he will be surrounded by his Hero, his mom, his brothers who have gone before him, and his wife Cinda. He will be sorely missed. Born in Lebanon, MO and raised around the world as a well-dressed military brat. His mother was up to date with fashion and made sure the sons of an Army officer appeared as such. This does not mean he was well behaved. He was a boy and pulled foolish boyhood stunts. Kent was drafted for Vietnam where he endured the hardships of war. Upon return to the states, he married and had two daughters (Sherri & De'Ann). Unfortunately, the marriage did not last but he later married Cinda Davis where he gained two more daughters (Terri & Danielle). Kent was full time in the MO National Guard where he retired in 1999 in Kansas City. Retirement provided years of travel for Kent & Cinda. They enjoyed their family and seeing our country until Cinda passed away in 2014. Kent went on to marry Gayle Ayers in 2015. They enjoyed dancing and getting together with friends in the Rio Grande Valley (TX). Ronald will be cremated in accordance with his wishes and escorted for inurnment to Fort Leonard Wood Veterans Cemetery, MO. by the Combat Veterans Motor Association at a later date. You may sign the online guestbook, light a remembrance candle, or send words of comfort to the family of Ronald Kent Mathis at www.thomaegarza.com. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomae-Garza Funeral Home and Crematorium, 395 S. Sam Houston, San Benito, Texas, (956) 399-1331.