Dahlsena Sherri Smith-Mathis

A Time for Life: Mrs. Dahlsena Sherri Smith Mathis was born on December 15, 1966, in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Mr. Melvin Smith and Ms. Francena Callahan Smith. From a young age, she carried a quiet strength and an unmistakable spirit that touched everyone she encountered.

A Time to Plant: Dahlsena was a proud graduate of Jean Ribault High School, Class of 1984. Her passion for learning and creativity led her to Keiser University, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree in Graphic Design. She later pursued and earned her Bachelor's degree through Everest University.

A Time to Harvest: Dahlsena dedicated herself to hard work and service. She was employed with Johnson & Johnson (Vistakon) for twenty years, from 1989 to 2009. Her second career began at the Department of Children and Families in 2009, where she continued to lead with commitment, compassion, and professionalism until her passing.

She also became a devoted member of the International Free and Accected Modern Masons Inc. and Order of the Eastern Star in 2020, embracing its values of charity, truth, and loving kindness. In 2022, she was elected Worthy Matron, serving her chapter with dignity and grace. Even during her illness, her commitment to the mission never faltered. Though she eventually stepped down for health reasons, she remained honored in spirit and legacy as a Past Matron—respected for her leadership, faith, and strength.

Time to Rejoice: Dahlsena was known for her radiant smile, generous spirit, and unwavering love for her family. Her faith and resilience inspired all who knew her. She found joy in life's simple moments—family dinners, shared laughter, quiet prayers, and creative expression.

Time for Rest: On Thursday, June 5, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at HCA Memorial Hospital, Dahlsena received her crown at the Lord's feet. Her journey was one of strength, grace, and deep love.

She was preceded in death by her father, Melvin Smith; and beloved relatives, Grandma Florence, Uncle Fred, Aunt Jackie, Aunt Dahlsena, Niece Petronia, Nephew Roderick, Nephew Tavarius, Cousins Vickie Scott, Levi Jordan, Josh Callahan, Lashawnda Callahan, and Freshanda Callahan, Step-Son Earvin, and others who welcomed her home.

Cherished Memories: Dahlsena leaves to cherish her memories, her mother, Francena Callahan; husband, Willie “Loggy” Mathis; children, Shaynell Mathis, Zyphin Mathis (Maleka), Nichole Odom, Octavius Odom (Keisha), and Brandon Mathis; grandchildren, Shania, Tyree, Jeremiah, Syrea, Marisol, Jeremiah, Jenvriah, Destiny, Octavius Jr., Kehlani, Kayden, Earvin Jr., Evan, Aerin and Ares; siblings, Francena Smith-Russ, Zachary Scott (Jodi), Sheena (Torri) Mills, Eddie Smith and Melissa Smith; aunts and uncles, Gladys Callahan, Micheal Callahan (Beverly) and Glenda Henry (Lee); nieces and nephews, Za’Chary, Tyqualah, Zachary, Brett (Ashley), Zachariah, Za’rion, A’Zaria, Zaveion, Zion, Roderick, Zamyia, Victoria, Bakari, Halee, Haven, Hunter, Kintaro and Dwayne; lifetime friends, Seketa, Valerie and Marie; and a host of family, friends and co-workers.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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