October 1, 2005, is a day that will forever remain etched in the hearts of the Mockabee family. As the world focused on the devastation wrought by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the Mockabees received news that no parent could prepare for—the passing of their beloved son, Captain Matthew Mockabee. Lieutenant Colonels William and Debra Mockabee were serving as Salvation Army area commanders in Dallas, overseeing shelters for displaced residents arriving from New Orleans. During their tireless work aiding survivors, the tragic news came: their son Matthew had been hospitalized while serving on a Salvation Army disaster relief team in Lufkin, Texas. Despite every effort, Matthew passed away while serving those affected by Hurricane Rita.
Captain Matthew Mockabee’s heart was always with the people he served. Weeks before his passing, he had been in New Orleans, offering emotional and spiritual care to survivors of Hurricane Katrina at the Astrodome. Matthew had an unrelenting drive to help those society overlooked-a champion of the underdog. Known for his creative and fearless approach, he found ways to rescue people stranded by the hurricane, even giving the shirt off his back to those in need. Survivors credited him with saving their lives. His strength lying in his ability to put others before himself. This selflessness, which was both his greatest strength and ultimate sacrifice, defined his life’s mission.
As his father recalls, Matthew “died with his boots on,” living a life of service with no regrets. In the wake of his loss, William and Debra began to “parent the memory” of their son, preserving and honoring the legacy of his compassionate service. Although they never intended for their sons to follow in their footsteps as Salvation Army officers, all three did, embodying the same spirit of dedication to God and others.
Today, Captain Jeremy Mockabee, Matthew’s brother, continues that legacy as the Incident Commander of the Salvation Army’s Florida Disaster Relief Team. Leading efforts in the Big Bend region after Hurricane Helene, Jeremy, too, is driven by a deep desire to help those in need. However, this year’s deployment on October 1st—the anniversary of Matthew’s passing—was different. Jeremy’s mother, Debra, described her “disaster anxiety,” making multiple calls to ensure he was safe. For Jeremy, the day resonated deeply, but rather than retreat, he chose to uplift his team, giving individual praise and gratitude for their efforts. His leadership inspired his team, many of whom felt that they had been brought together for this moment—to care for and support him in return.
Under Jeremy’s leadership, the Florida Disaster Team continues to serve with a dedication they hope would make Matthew proud. His life of service and sacrifice remains a guiding light, and those serving, carry forward his legacy of selflessness and compassion as they serve the people affected by Hurricane Helene.
“Remember who you are and the reason you were called into the Army to save souls. If you ever start to forget that or, God forbid, the devil tempts you with the thought you are above that, take one of your canteens out into the inner city and look at the hopeless faces of the lost. Then you will re-acquire the fire that burns inside my heart.”-Captain Matthew A. Mockabee
