Charles Thomas Mathewson, 72, of Plymouth, MA passed away on June 25, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family after an ongoing bout with cancer. He was born July 1, 1951, in Providence, RI, to Arlene Pratt and Hazen Mathewson, and was raised by his mother Arlene in Brockton.
After graduating from Goddard College in 1974, he spent time in Los Angeles studying and working in clinical psychology. His return to Massachusetts a few years later ushered in a range of vocations and intellectual pursuits: dry-picking cranberry bogs, writing grants and ad copy, climbing mountains, creating multimedia art, and playing almost any instrument he could get his hands on. Despite a lifelong interest, his career in Journalism did not start until 35 years ago. He was a freelance reporter around the South Shore for years until he started at the Old Colony Memorial newspaper in Plymouth. This was where his reputation for precise writing and observational skills led him to eventually become editor. His next venture in local journalism was as a broadcaster for WATD, where he was for the last 15 years.
All these years of acquired local knowledge culminated in a role as Precinct 4 Town Meeting representative, a position he was especially proud to hold. Regardless of role, his passion for learning, teaching, story, humor, history, politics, arts, and Plymouth always came through in his interactions.
Of all his passions, none surpassed his love for his family – his wife Nancy, sons Casey and Jamie, stepdaughter Hannah, stepson Eli, and his brothers Chris, Tim, and John. He loved all of them dearly and would gladly talk at length about any of them if given the opportunity.
We remember Charlie for his words – well-crafted, suspenseful (or painful) pauses, esoteric and dry jokes, lectures, experiences, abilities, compassion, and his smile. Please come remember him with us for a celebration of his life at Garibaldi Club in Plymouth, on Monday, July 8 from 4 to 7 p.m. We invite people to share memories, experiences, and stories in honor of Charlie.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to Beth Israel Lahey Health Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth, Office of Philanthropy, 529 Main Street, 4th floor, Charlestown, MA, 02129