Arnold Mathers
Arnold Mathers of Exeter passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the age of 87. Surrounded by family, he eased his way into the next chapter of life with no regrets and deep thankfulness.
He leaves to mourn his passing his loving wife of 67 years, Ila. Together, they were boastfully proud of their children Dwayne (Debbie), Lorrie (Nathalie), and Suzanne (Brian). Arnold and Ila were blessed with nine grandchildren who brought him immense joy: Dwayne’s children Brent (Amanda), Blake (Alexandra), and Kyle (Natalie), Lorrie’s children Melanie (Jesse), Sarah, and Jonathan, and Suzanne’s children Justin (Sara), Brock (Aliesha), and Drew (Hailey). Arnold was also a proud great‑grandfather to seven great‑grandchildren: Adia, Adeline, Harrison, and Keith, children of Brent and Amanda; Emmaline and Elowyn, children of Blake and Alexandra; and Scottie, daughter of Justin and Sara.
Arnold dedicated his professional life to education. After graduating from Wingham High School and Stratford Teachers’ College, he began his career teaching in a one‑room rural school near Tiverton. He married Ila Pengelly, then they moved to Toronto where he taught for five years.
In 1964, after he received his B.A. from the University of Western Ontario, they moved the family to Exeter, where Arnold became principal of Usborne Central School for two years and later Huron Centennial School in Brucefield for 18 years. He completed his career serving with the Huron County Board of Education.
Although committed to education, Arnold never strayed far from his Huron County farming roots. Together with Ila and their children, he farmed, raising beef cattle, growing cash crops, and operating a Christmas tree farm. Their restored log house near Wingham became a cherished gathering place for family reunions and celebrations.
Arnold was not one to sit back and wait for things to happen. He was always one step ahead, whether planning parties, trips or family outings. He welcomed challenges at work and in the community, helping neighbours, volunteering at church, and building houses for Habitat for Humanity.
Humour was a big part of Arnold’s life. He loved telling jokes and humorous stories, many of which appeared in The Rural Voice and were later compiled into books.
Arnold and Ila also shared a love of travel, exploring more than 50 countries and spending many winters in Florida, where they enjoyed many friends and activities. Arnold was also an avid golfer.
Arnold will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and great‑grandfather, respected educator, friend and enthusiastic traveller. Above all, he will be remembered for his deep love of family.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, Exeter on Sunday, March 22 from 1-3 p.m., where a celebration of Arnold’s life will be held at 3 p.m. A spring interment will be held at Brandon Cemetery, Belgrave with the immediate family.
Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh
In lieu of flowers, donations in Arnold’s memory may be made to Habitat for Humanity Huron County or the South Huron Trail (Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation). The family appreciates your kindness and support.