Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Kara Mathews Obituary
Kara was born on Oct 27, 1979 in Durango, CO to Bruce and Cindy (McClanahan) Swanemyr. She married Chris Mathews on August 17, 2004 in the St. George, UT Temple for time and all eternity. They enjoyed 17 beautiful years together.
Kara was raised in Ignacio, CO. She was active in 4-H, school sports and helped her family on their ranch. She went to Dixie State College in St. George, UT and graduated from BYU-Hawaii. Kara was a PE teacher and then a dedicated mom and caring wife. Kara was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served many people, even as she fought cancer.
Kara loved traveling, adventures, nature, sports, good salsa and always had music playing. Kara lived fully and loved her family and friends. She kept in close touch with scores of people. To know her was to love her.
She is survived by her loving husband, Chris Mathews; sons Nathan (14) and Jackson (11) of St. George, UT; parents Bruce & Cindy Swanemyr, brothers Jesse (Tia) and Cole (Katie), grandparents; Jean McClanahan, Bob & Betty Swanemyr of Ignacio, CO.
Upon marrying Chris, the son of Robert & Carol Mathews of Panaca, NV, Kara gained 9 additional siblings and their spouses. Kara has 56 nieces and nephews, 4 great-nieces, and 1 great-nephew.
A service celebrating her life will be held on March 6 at 2 P.M. at 3202 E. Crimson Ridge Dr, St. George, UT. A viewing will be held on March 5 from 5-7 P.M. at Spilsbury Mortuary. There will be a smaller viewing from 12 to 1:30 P.M, for family and those traveling on Saturday.
The service will be broadcasted via YouTube, a link will be shared via Facebook.
Kara will be laid to rest in the Tonaquint Cemetery in St. George, UT.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family via Kara's Venmo account @Kara-Mathews-4
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kara Mathews
Sponsored by Spilsbury Mortuary - St. George.
Hector Alvarado Marcia Franzen
February 23, 2022
It was such a pleasure to know Kara and observe her maturing into the wonderful young woman she was. She touched many lives. We will always remember watching her play basketball and her fierce competitive spirit. Love to the family.
Susan Rose
March 13, 2021
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of dear sweet Kara. She was such a delight as a sixth grade student and a skilled competitive athlete to coach. Her enthusiasm, beautiful smile, and care for others was an inspiration to all who knew her. My deepest condolences to your family.
Susan Rose
Larry Olguin
March 8, 2021
I knew Kara as a wonderful and attentive person. A bright light. I pray for Kara’s family.
Elizabeth Gallegos
March 5, 2021
Cindy and Family My Deepest Sympathy to You and Your Family. You are in My Thoughts and Prayers.
Craig Butler
March 5, 2021
So sorry for your loss, Bruce & Cindy
Tina Duran-Velasquez
March 2, 2021
I was fortunate enough to get to know Kara Jo when she played high school basketball -- her mother, Cindy and I have been friends for decades! I was always impressed with Kara's friendly attitude, competitive spirit and bright smile -- she will be greatly missed! My condolences, prayers, and love are sent to Kara's family during this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in Kara Mathews's name
Memorial Events
for Kara Mathews
Mar
5
Viewing
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Spilsbury Mortuary - St. George110 South Bluff Street, Saint George, UT 84770
Funeral services provided by:
Spilsbury Mortuary - St. George110 South Bluff Street, Saint George, UT 84770
How to support Kara's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Kara Mathews's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
