Rodney Dale Mattix

Rodney Dale Mattix, 85, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at his home in Moss Bluff, Louisiana. He was born on in Longview, Texas, to Emory and Elsie Brunner Mattix.

Rodney lived a life marked by service, learning, and quiet dedication to others. He worked in healthcare for many years, serving at Moss Regional Hospital, Lake Charles Memorial Hospital on 10 Tower, and DeQuincy General Hospital. Earlier in his career, he worked as a research chemist in Chicago, Illinois, and later sold chemicals in West Virginia. A lifelong learner, Rodney earned a degree in Chemical Engineering and went on to receive a Master of Business Administration from Loyola University in Chicago.

In addition to his professional career, Rodney proudly served his country in the Army National Guard for 26 years. As a front-line medic, he cared for others with skill and compassion, retiring honorably as a Sergeant First Class. His service reflected his steady character, sense of duty, and willingness to place others before himself.

Outside of work and service, Rodney found great joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, scuba diving, and spending time in nature, simple pleasures that brought him peace and fulfillment.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 65 years, Joyce Suydam Mattix; son, Richard Mattix (Sue) their children; Kenneth, Steven, Sarah, and Joshua; son, James Mattix (Carolyn), their children; Robert, Matthew, Kara, Steven, and Katherine; daughter in law Heidi Tanner her children; Jeremy, Jacob, and Mariah, step daughter: Candy Suydam (Ron) their children; Collin, Erin, Laina, Conner, and Mykha, and twenty four great-grandchildren; his sisters, Carolyn Perkins (Joe) and Virginia Mattix; and his brother-in-law, Robert Suydam (Kathy).

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Emory Mattix; and his great-granddaughter, Libi Faye Mattix-Stephenson.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2016 from 10:00am until 12:00 noon in the Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles Chapel, with a rosary at 11:30am. Funeral services will be at 12:00 noon with burial following in Highland Gardens Cemetery, with military honors.

Rodney will be remembered for his faith, his devotion to family, and a life quietly lived in service to others. May he rest in peace, comforted by the love he gave and the legacy he leaves behind.

The family would like to give special thanks to Heart of Hospice and Fresenius Kidney Care Center for all the help and care they provided to Rodney.