Iris M Matz

Iris Mae (McNeal) Matz entered the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 23, 2023, at the age of 95.

She was the third child born to Clarence and Daphna McNeal on October 13, 1927, in Cozad, NE. Growing up on a farm east of Gothenburg, NE, she enjoyed riding her pony on the country roads and writing skits using younger brother Leigh as the main actor. Iris attended country school through 8th grade and graduated from Gothenburg High School with the class of 1946. At the dance hall operated by her father, she met the love of her life and was married to Delmar Matz on her 20th birthday, October 13, 1947, by the justice of the peace with her parents and Delmar’s mother, Mildred Roepke, witnessing this joyous occasion. Delmar and Iris made their home in Lexington, NE, and she was a stay-at-home mother for their three sons. Delmar died suddenly in 1984; but her love for him remained an ever-present memory for the rest of her life.

In childhood, Iris shared a room with her sister Donna, and they prayed together every night. However, it was not until her forties that Iris finally understood the gospel message of the Bible. Her sons asked her, “Mom are you saved?” and her usual answer was, “I won’t know until I die.” While doing research for a Christmas program, the truth of John 3:16 suddenly made sense, “whosoever believeth in Jesus Christ would receive eternal life.” By faith, Iris believed, her whole life changed, and she knew her future destiny was heaven. She served her Lord at the Lexington Berean Bible Church for over 50 years and shared her faith with others as opportunities presented.

During her widowhood, Iris used her creative abilities to bring happiness, laughter, and encouragement to many. She wrote and performed Minnie Pearl monologues, honored residents at Southview Manor in Cozad, NE, with birthday parties for seven years without repeating a monthly theme and brought encouragement to grieving widows with “Son Shine Baskets.” She also wrote plays that were performed at Avamere, an elder care facility in Lexington, and at her church.

Those left to carry on her legacy are: Lon (Andrea) Matz, Madison, WI; Randy (Cindy) Matz, Cordova, TN; and Brent (Cindy) Matz, Lincoln, NE, 8 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Iris was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and 3 siblings.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 3, 2023, from 4-6 p.m. at the Berean Bible Church in Lexington.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the Lexington Berean Bible Church, 210 W. 7th Street, Lexington, NE 68850. Following the service, please join the family for dessert and coffee in the Fellowship Hall.

Memorials are suggested to Lexington Berean Bible Church.

Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com