Nicole R. Mathewson

A smile that lit up a room and a laugh that was contagious. Bright, hazel eyes and warm, inviting arms that were always willing to share love, honesty, and compassion. A heart that was so big it couldn't be contained and a passion for human kind that was felt anytime anyone stepped into her classroom, her home, and her life. There is no one particular way to describe the endless light that was Nicole R. Mathewson, but that light became something everlasting and always present when she tragically left us on Monday, December 15, 2014. Nicole was born on September 15, 1982 in Sayre, PA, the daughter of Mark and Tina (Rector) Mathewson. She was a graduate of Owego Free Academy High School Class of 2000, and her dedication to having an impact on the lives and learning of young people called her to continue her education at Eastern University and Eastern Mennonite University. As a devoted 6th grade math teacher for the Brownstown Elementary School in the Conestoga Valley School District, she became a constant for so many that she touched, using quick wit and compassionate understanding to connect with her students like no other. "Miss Nicole" enthusiastically opened her heart to her students and her community, and she was unwavering in her belief in peace, justice, and most importantly, the good and potential that all people hold. Nicole's life centered around both education and her love of God. As a member of the Community Fellowship Church in Lancaster, she served on the worship team and shared her faith in the Lord as a Sunday School teacher. She was also a beloved member of her Lounsberry United Methodist Church family. No matter where she went, Nicole's love of music went with her. She was a self-taught pianist, enjoyed singing, and had the voice of an angel. One thing is certain for those whom she left behind: the day we meet again, she will be there, greeting us in joyous song as we cross through Heaven's door. Nicole will be greatly missed by her father Mark Mathewson of Owego; her mother Tina (Rector) Mathewson of Vestal, NY; her sister Karen Mathewson and Joe Signs of Owego; her companion Cory Meek; aunts and uncles: David Mathewson of Buffalo; Marianne Bailey of Owego; Kathleen Musso of Binghamton; Cindy (Tony) Moro of Nichols; Timothy (Maureen) Mathewson of Nichols; several cousins, among them Justin Moro. Nicole was welcomed into Heaven and found comfort in the arms of her own angels, her paternal grandparents Nancy and Norman Mathewson and maternal grandmother Lillian "Cha-cha" Rector. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Nicole's life on Saturday, December 27, 2014. A period of visitation will be held at the Owego United Methodist Church from 11 - 3 pm with a memorial service following at 3 pm with Pastor Jon Austin and Pastor John Martin, officiating. A celebration of her life will also be held on Saturday, January 3rd 2015 at 10 AM at The Worship Center, 2384 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, Pa 17601. The family encourages you to share your memories, photos and condolences by visiting our website at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Flowers will be provided by the family, and memorial contributions may be directed to the Nicole R. Mathewson Scholarship Fund, c/o Conestoga Valley School District, 2110 Horseshoe Road, Lancaster, Pa 17601; the Community Fellowship Church, 200 Bethel Drive, Lancaster, Pa 17601 or the Lounsberry United Methodist Church,c/o Maryann Cronk, Treasure, PO Box 318, Nichols, NY 13812 , in loving memory of Nicole R. Mathewson. Caring assistance is being provided by the Cooley Family of the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main Street, Nichols, NY 13812 Previous Events Visitation DEC 27. 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (ET) Owego United Methodist Church 261 Main Street Owego, NY 13827 Loading map Service DEC 27. 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (ET) Owego United Methodist Church 261 Main Street Owego, NY 13827 Loading map Service JAN 3. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (ET) The Worship Center 2384 New Howland Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 Loading map