Jolissa Steele Shifflett Mathews, 82 of Front Royal, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at Hidden Springs Senior Living surrounded by her loving family.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Front Royal United Methodist Church with The Rev Larry Craddock officiating. Inurnment will be private.
Jolissa was born May 4, 1944 in Warren County, Virginia, daughter of the late John and Evelyn Laing Steele.
She worked for U.S Customs as a Program Analyst for over 38 years and the Warren County Sheriff’s office for 10 years as an administrative assistant. She was a faithful and dedicated member of the Front Royal United Methodist Church for over 50 years and a longtime member of the Izaak Walton League.
Surviving is her loving and devoted husband of 39 years, Gene Mathews; her close friend and first husband, Jim Shifflett; daughter, Jodi Deck and husband Bill of Stephens City; son, Jeff Mathews and wife Michele of Lynchburg; daughter, Jackie North and husband Robert of Front Royal; brother, Sonny Steele and wife Barb, of Ripley, Ohio; seven grandchildren, Nathan Deck and wife Virginia of Apple Valley, Minnesota, Wyatt Deck, Emily Catron, Patrick North, Taylor Miklovic, Courtney Saunders and Sue Gibbs; great-grandchildren, Claire and Cora Catron, Davis and Ellis North, Ellison Miklovic, Campbell Saunders, and Luna and Paisley Gibbs; and two nephews.
Jolissa was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Libby Bolton.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Warren County Chapter Izaak Walton League, 3364 Gooney Manor Loop, Bentonville, Virginia or to the Front Royal United Methodist Church, 1 West Main Street, Front Royal, Virginia 22630 and or the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601.
I went to school with Jolissa she had a great sense of humor and was always smiling . She had a heart of gold and anyone that knew her was very fortunate. She will me missed by many RIP and God speed you are an angel
I remember going home with my childhood friend Jodi- jolissa was so nice.
So sorry to hear this.
I went to school with Lisa. She was a sweetie. I know she will b greatly missed.
My prayers are lifted for the loved ones of Jolissa. I’m blessed to have known her my entire life and be an “honorary” Laing. Jolissa was a kind and gentle person who loved her family dearly. I know her family will miss her.
Our thoughts and prayers with each of you!
Love and hugs, Ruth Ann & George
Jo was an awesome co-worker and friend. I will miss her very much. Prayers for her family.
Fond memories together on the Women’s Bowling League and later volunteering together at the former WMH Gift Shop on Shenandoah Avenue as well some bargain shopping at some second hand shops and specialty shops. So enjoyed her smile and enthusiasm as well as our friendship. Heartfelt sympathy to Gene, Jodi, Jeff, their families, Jackie and Robert as well as her grandchildren she lovingly spoke of during our times we “hung out”.
Jodi and the family, Our deepest sympathy thoughts and prayers to you all so sorry for your loss such a lovely lady, our condolences,🙏 Nancy and Kim
Such a sweet lady. Prayers and condolences to the family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Ruth Ann & George
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Ruth Ann & George Poe
My deepest sympathy to all the family and those close to Jolissa.
I will continue to keep you in my prayers. May you find peace in God’s love and promises.
Ruby Corr
Mr. Mathews, Jodi, Jackie, Jeff, and families, our deepest condolences for the passing of your precious wife/mother. While Mrs. Jolissa’s stay was all too brief at Hidden Springs Senior Living, we pray our staff was able to comfortably care for your wife/mother and give you peace of mind in her final days.
May God be with you all in the days and weeks ahead.
May God comfort your families with His love. The angel count went up one with Jolissa. My sister, Carol Steele, loved her and I’m sure she’ll welcome her.💕
Roxie Leonard
Jodie and family I just found out Jolissa has passed away. She was a beautiful person and a wonderful friend. I’m glad I got to see her one last time but sorry I didn’t spend more time with her. She praised you and your family and was so lucky to have you . I hope she is at peace