Dave Mathews Obituary, Shelby American Automobile Club Mourns Beloved 1967 Shelby Registrar at 78

According to his published obituary, Mathews began serving as the dedicated 1967 Shelby registrar for SAAC in 1983. In that role, he devoted decades to documenting the histories of these classic performance cars, helping owners and enthusiasts maintain accurate records of their vehicles. The obituary identifies his dedication to authenticity and his willingness to share information as defining parts of his legacy.

A lasting contribution to Shelby history

The 1967 Shelby Mustang holds a special place in American automotive history, and preserving the records of individual vehicles requires years of careful research. As registrar, Mathews helped gather and organize information about the cars, including their production details, ownership histories and significant changes over time.

The importance of that work is reflected in the Shelby American Automobile Club’s registry publications. These detailed reference books bring together information collected by registrars and other contributors, helping enthusiasts identify vehicles and understand their histories. The club’s 1965–1966–1967 Shelby registry has been described as an extensive record of the cars and their individual backgrounds.

Mathews’ work also appeared in the club’s published material. A 2022 issue of The Shelby American highlighted the 1967 Shelby registry produced by Dave and Nancy Mathews and edited by Yvonne Kirk. The publication documented known ownership information, vehicle histories, specifications and photographs, creating a valuable resource for collectors and researchers.

A life shaped by mechanical curiosity

Beyond his work with classic automobiles, Mathews had a professional career in business. His obituary states that he graduated from Guilford High School in 1966 and later attended Quinnipiac College. He began his professional career at Electrostatic Technologies Inc. in Branford, Connecticut, eventually becoming the company’s president and owner.

The obituary also describes his early fascination with mechanical things, engines and wheels. That interest continued throughout his life, alongside his appreciation for the sea and time spent with family and friends. Those who knew him are remembered as having benefited from his mechanical ability, honesty and readiness to help solve problems.

His contribution to the Shelby community extended beyond maintaining records. By sharing his knowledge and encouraging accurate documentation, Mathews helped protect the history of cars that remain important to collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world.

Remembering a dedicated registrar

Mathews’ passing marks the loss of a longtime contributor to the preservation of Shelby automotive heritage. His work demonstrates how dedicated researchers and registrars help keep automotive history alive—not only through the cars themselves, but also through the records that establish their origins and journeys.

According to the published obituary, a Mass of Christian Burial was scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, at St. George Church in Guilford, Connecticut, with burial to follow privately at Nut Plains Cemetery. The family requested memorial contributions to the Committee for the Great Salt Pond or Forgotten Felines in lieu of flowers.

For Shelby enthusiasts, Dave Mathews will be remembered for decades of service, meticulous historical work and a willingness to share his knowledge. His contribution to documenting the 1967 Shelby models leaves a lasting resource for future generations seeking to understand and preserve these celebrated automobiles.