CJay Preston Mattox

CJay Preston Mattox of Poteau, Oklahoma was born December 18, 2008 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Charley Jefferson and Heather Nicole Mattox and passed away September 3, 2026 in Poteau, Oklahoma at the age of 17.

He is survived by:

His parents:  Charley and Heather Mattox

Two sisters:  Kourtney Mattox; Kaylee Thompson and husband Isaiah

One brother:  Caleb Mattox

His paternal grandmother:  Sherry Keeney

His maternal grandparents:  Nikole and Korey Welch

His uncle:  Preston Mattox

His cousin:  Jessica Mattox and Taos Mattox

His niece and nephew:  Paislee and Lucas Thompson

Numerous other loved ones and many friends

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dennis Mattox; his aunt, Jessica Mattox; and his cousin, Ashton Mattox.

CJay was a senior at Howe High School, where he was known for his intelligence, strong work ethic, handsome smile, and kind heart. His infectious smile could brighten any room, and his heart of gold touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

CJay had a passion for motorcycles and trucks and was naturally gifted when it came to working on anything mechanical. He also enjoyed playing the guitar and was known as a master trader and a true wheeler-dealer. One of his greatest joys was spoiling his niece, Paislee, and nephew, Lucas. He was a wonderful role model to his brother, Caleb, and his cousin, Taos, who both looked up to him.

The love CJay shared with his Pawpaw was beyond measure, and their special bond meant the world to him. CJay was dependable and loyal, always there whenever someone needed him. He was never afraid to stand up for himself or defend someone who needed his support. CJay will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his loving heart, protective spirit, unforgettable smile, and the happiness he brought to those blessed to know him.

Funeral service to honor CJay’s life will be 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at the Howe Gymnasium in Howe, Oklahoma with Reverend Roger Mattox and Reverend Jeff Mattox officiating. Burial will follow in the Howe Cemetery in Howe, Oklahoma under the care and direction of Dowden-Roberts Funeral Home of Heavener, Oklahoma.

Pallbearers will be: Charley Mattox, Preston Mattox, Isaiah Thompson, Brycen Place, Jekobi Bruesch, and Montana Williams.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Caleb Mattox, Jake Perry, Paul Mattox, David Williams III, Arlo Bruesch, Jesse Bruesch, Hayden Shadwick, Mark Place, and Colton Wilson.

Viewing with be from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday; 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday and Tuesday. The family will be visiting with the friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday at the funeral home.