Rodeo, sometimes known as “The Greatest Show on Dirt,” is a truly American sport that features cowboys’ unmatched daring. Every performance is centered around the announcer’s baritone, a storyteller who brings the arena to life and leads the audience through its pulsating moments. One of the famous voices in the rodeo industry, Mike Mathis, passed away on December 13.

Mathis—a renowned announcer—covered the sport for almost 50 years. His outstanding career is second to none. As the rodeo community mourns his passing, there is more to his eventful sojourn than meets the eye.

With Mathis’ gift of the gab gathering dust, a hearken back at the great

Mike Mathis passed away at 75 while working at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Born in Lufkin, Texas, on August 13, 1948—His voice, insight, and love for the sport have been integral to many events, thus his departure has left a void in the rodeo world. His family besieged Mathis at Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Hospital at the time of his untimely demise as reported by Pro Rodeo.

Mathis was born and bred in the sleepy little Texas hamlet of Lufkin, where his tryst into the world of rodeo began. He started a profitable banking career post graduating from Stephen F. Austin State University armed with a business administration degree in finance. Mathis began working as the Coordinator for the Angelina Benefit Rodeo in 1976. This was a turning point for him as he acquired the sobriquet: “Mr. Rodeo.”

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In 1989, Mathis gave up his corporate attire for a cowboy hat and committed himself to a full-time rodeo career. As he called rodeos, his unique voice reverberated across the country. This created an indelible impression on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).

His commitment to the growth and prosperity of rodeo was clear by his service in the PRCA Executive Council, NFR Committee, PRCA Board of Directors, and PRCA Texas Circuit Board of Directors. He donned many hats, clearly.

Traversing the role of a mere announcer, Mathis is a pioneer

Mathis worked as an announcer in high-profile events like the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo and the National Finals Steer Roping. However, he was more than just an announcer during his career. He was an exponent of community service—Known as “Mr. Rodeo,” he loved his hometown of Lufkin and devoted his life to improving it via organizations like the Lions Club. In 2013, Mathis was inducted into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame commensurate with his exceptional efforts.

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And despite Mathis’s deep affection for rodeo, his love for his family never come second. He was also a loving grandpa. Leaving a lacuna, the rodeo community bemoans the passing of this living legend. Mathis’ influence will continue to resonate in the history of the sport.

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