Dave Mathews, the longtime 1967 Shelby Registrar for the Shelby American Automobile Club, died on October 7, 2026, at the age of 78. His passing has brought sadness to the classic-car community, where he was respected for his knowledge of Shelby automobiles and his many years helping preserve their history.
Mathews began serving as the club’s 1967 Shelby Registrar in 1983. Over the decades that followed, he became a valued source of knowledge for owners and enthusiasts seeking to protect the authenticity and historical significance of their vehicles.
Decades of Service to Shelby Automotive History
Mathews devoted much of his time to preserving the legacy of classic Shelby automobiles. As registrar, he helped enthusiasts understand the history and originality of vehicles associated with the 1967 model year.
Such work is important to classic-car preservation. Accurate records and careful examination of vehicle details can help owners understand a car’s background and maintain its historical credibility.
His service, which began in 1983, reflected a commitment that continued for decades. Through his experience and willingness to share information, he contributed to the club’s efforts to safeguard an important part of American automotive history.
Remembered for His Knowledge and Integrity
In its tribute, the Shelby American Automobile Club remembered Mathews for his honesty, dedication, and extensive expertise.
Those qualities are particularly valuable in the collector-car world, where establishing a vehicle’s authenticity can require detailed research and a strong understanding of its original specifications. Mathews earned the respect of fellow enthusiasts through his long involvement and commitment to the registrar role.
His influence extended beyond technical knowledge. Years of working alongside fellow collectors also helped build relationships rooted in a shared appreciation for automotive history.
For those who relied on his guidance, his passing represents the loss of an experienced and trusted member of the community.
A Lasting Legacy Within the Shelby Community
Mathews’ contribution was part of a wider effort to preserve the stories behind historically significant vehicles. Classic cars are valued not only for their engineering and design but also for their documented history and connection to the people who created and maintained them.
Through his work with 1967 Shelby models, Mathews helped owners and enthusiasts appreciate that heritage. His decades of service leave a meaningful mark on the club and the community it serves.
While his role focused on a particular group of vehicles, the principles he upheld—accuracy, careful research, and respect for automotive history—remain important to classic-car preservation.
Family and Funeral Arrangements
Mathews is survived by his wife, Nancy, as well as other family members and friends who are grieving his loss.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. George Church in Guilford, Connecticut. The service will offer loved ones and members of the community an opportunity to gather in remembrance.
The club has also extended its condolences to Mathews’ family during this difficult time.
Dave Mathews Obituary and Cause of Death
Dave Mathews, aged 78, died on October 7, 2026. He was known for his longstanding service as the Shelby American Automobile Club’s 1967 Shelby Registrar, a position he held beginning in 1983.
His specific cause of death has not been disclosed in the information provided. No medical explanation or further circumstances surrounding his passing have been confirmed here.
Mathews will be remembered for his dedication to preserving Shelby automotive heritage, his knowledge, and the integrity he brought to his work. His contributions and the relationships he built over decades will remain part of his legacy.
May Dave Mathews’ family and friends find comfort in their memories of him, and may his commitment to automotive history continue to be appreciated by generations of enthusiasts.
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