Elizabeth “Eliza” Raven Mathewes was born in Kannapolis, North Carolina, to John Raven Mathewes and Elizabeth Robbins Mathewes. She often visited her grandparents' home at Lake Junaluska Methodist Assembly in Western North Carolina and worked there seasonally during the summers in the Youth Center Soda Shop and the Children’s Building.

Eliza graduated high school from Peace Preparatory School in Raleigh, NC in 1961, and then attended Greensboro College and Peace College. She also worked as an Underwriting Clerk with the North Carolina Farm Bureau’s home office in Raleigh and later as a bookkeeper for the Waynesville Country Club. In addition, she lived abroad in West Germany, where she served with the American Red Cross at the U.S. Army Hospital in Bremerhaven, ultimately returning to WNC.

In mid-life, Eliza sensed God calling her to a new assignment and at age 42, she undertook completing her undergraduate degree, studying at both Western Carolina University and the University of North Carolina in Asheville. She received a B.A. degree with Distinction in Sociology (with an emphasis in criminal justice) from UNCA in 1988. During this time, she also served as a Guardian Ad Litem Volunteer in Haywood County.

Eliza then pursued a graduate degree in Social Work, with an emphasis in Social Welfare & Social Justice, from the Kent School of Social Work at the University of Louisville. She also worked for the Wesley Community House and Kentucky Youth Advocates and was a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

The greatest legacy of Eliza’s life was her love and dedication to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was a pillar of unbreakable faith, a true prayer warrior, and an active member of Long’s Chapel in Waynesville, NC. As a life-long Methodist, Eliza had a long history of church service, including serving with the United Methodist Women as District treasurer. In addition, she held various offices and served on numerous committees and delegations.

Eliza spent many happy decades of her life walking the beautiful grounds of Lake Junaluska and being in loving community with other residents and her church family. She was known as a woman full of joy and encouragement for others, with a radiant smile that reflected her heart, which always saw the best in her fellow man. Her pure gratitude for the smallest things and abiding devotional life continues to inspire many to admire and follow her example.

A graveside service was held December 29, 2025, at Carolina Memorial Park in Kannapolis, NC. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Long’s Chapel in Waynesville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the benevolence fund at Long’s Chapel.