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John Mattox, Longtime Community Leader, Underground Railroad Museum Curator, Dies

John Mattox, a longtime Belmont County resident who filled many important roles in the community, has died.

County tourism Director Barb Ballint made the announcement Wednesday morning at the weekly meeting of the Belmont County Board of Commissioners. The news came two days after Mattox suffered a stroke and was transported to an Ohio State University hospital for treatment.

The Mattox family also shared the news via social media.

“Friends, family and loved ones, it is with a heavy heart that I share with you all my father, Dr. John S. Mattox, has gone on to be with the Lord.He went peacefully and surrounded by his loved ones,” John Mattox Jr. wrote on Facebook at about 9:15 a.m. Wednesday, adding that funeral arrangements are pending.

The elder Mattox was perhaps best known as co-founder and curator of the Underground Railroad Museum in Flushing. A military veteran and retired insurance agent, he also founded and operated for many years the local chapter of A Special Wish Foundation. He served on numerous local boards and councils and was a popular speaker, presenting programs for area school children, clubs and organizations.

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