Gretna……….Ramsey "Dude" Ira Mattox, age 84 of Gretna died Saturday, April 18, 2020 at Autumn Care of Altavista.

Born December 19, 1935 in Hurt, he was a son of the late Ernest Carson Mattox, Sr. and Virgie Farmer Mattox.  He was predeceased by three brothers, Carson Mattox, Richard "Dickie" Mattox, and Grover "Pete" Mattox; and one sister, Hazel Mattox Seawell.  Mr. Mattox was an Army Veteran and member of New Prospect Baptist Church.  He was a man of many talents.  He owned Dude's Drive-In in Altavista and a second one in Gretna.  He was known for his cheeseburgers and good food.  After leaving the restaurant business he and his wife, Elva relocated to Boone, NC where he owned a horse farm there called Foscoe Equestrian Center.  It was there that he fell in love with the mountains and creeks.  In his later years he enjoyed saving and restoring historical homes.  He had a vision for each one and made them come back to life.  He also loved gardening, and all of God's creatures.  He rescued many horses, dogs, sheep, goats, and gave them a wonderful life.  He will be so missed by his dogs, Annie, Holly, Stella, Sofie and Coco.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Elva Dalton Mattox of the residence;  one daughter, Elizabeth "Beth" Browning and husband, Jon of Gretna; two sons, Michael E. Mattox and wife, Denise of Altavista, and Gary R. Mattox and wife, Victoria of Altavista; one brother, Herbert Mattox and wife, Shelby of Altavista; three sisters, Ann Hamlett and husband, Irvin of Gretna, Nancy Tucker and husband, Raymond of Lynch Station, and Judy Walker and husband, Bobby of Hurt; a special brother-in-law whom he loved like brother, Ray O. Dalton, Sr. of Gretna; seven granddaughters, Alexandra E. Cash, Mattox P. Cash, Sarah Roach and husband, Larry, Emily Towler and husband, Chris, Samantha Janiak and husband, Jeff, Danielle Cocke and husband, Bronson, and Caroline Mattox; seven great-grandchildren, Cameron Hogan, Nova Roach, Nitro Roach, Ryder Garrett, Eann Janiak, Ivey Janiak and Dalton Cocke; and nieces and nephews.

In keeping with his wishes and his love of the mountains, a private service will be held at a later date.

Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.