10/23/2026
❤️ More Than a Building: The Heart and History Behind Princeton's Chuck Mathena Center
A Community & Cleanliness Spotlight by Home Harmony & Commercial Cleaning LLC
Sometimes we pass by places in our community without realizing the incredible stories behind them. At Home Harmony & Commercial Cleaning LLC, our cleanliness reviews are about more than polished floors and beautiful facilities. They're also about recognizing the people, the dedication, and the history that make these establishments so meaningful.
The Chuck Mathena Center in Princeton, West Virginia, is one of those places.
Behind this beautiful performing arts center is the story of Charlie and Marquetta Mathena, two remarkable individuals whose generosity and commitment to their community have left a lasting legacy.
Charlie and Marquetta shared a life built on service, family, faith, education, and compassion. Charlie became widely known through his funeral service career and community involvement, while Marquetta was his devoted partner and an equally important part of the Mathena family's story. Together, they created a loving home for their son, Charles T. "Chuck" Mathena II, and shared a deep belief in the importance of helping others. Their partnership and generosity helped shape the values that would eventually inspire one of Princeton's most meaningful cultural landmarks.
Charlie began his career in the funeral service industry in Princeton in 1966, dedicating decades to serving families during some of their most difficult moments. A graduate of Welch High School, Bluefield State College, and the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, he also became actively involved in community organizations, including the Princeton Rotary Club and youth athletics. Charlie and Marquetta married in 1969 and welcomed their only son, Charles T. "Chuck" Mathena II, in 1970.
For Marquetta, motherhood was at the center of her life, just as community service was central to Charlie's. Chuck was their beloved son and a source of tremendous pride and joy. The family shared a close bond, and those who knew them understood how deeply Chuck's life and dreams mattered to both of his parents. His appreciation for music and the performing arts would later become an important part of the legacy created in his honor.
In March 1992, their lives changed forever when Chuck tragically lost his life in an automobile accident. He was just 21 years old and had a deep appreciation for the performing arts. For Marquetta and Charlie, the loss was unimaginable. Yet in the midst of that heartbreak, they helped transform grief into purpose.
What Charlie and Marquetta chose to do in the years that followed speaks volumes about their character. Rather than allowing their son's memory to fade, they turned an unimaginable heartbreak into opportunities for others. They established the Charles T. "Chuck" Mathena II Foundation, which has since provided nearly $300,000 in scholarships to deserving students.
Charlie and Marquetta worked together to preserve Chuck's memory not only as a beloved son, but as a young man whose interests and potential could continue inspiring others. Through the foundation and the family's generosity, students have received encouragement to pursue their education and build brighter futures. In that way, they ensured that Chuck's life would continue touching people he would never have the opportunity to meet.
Their vision, together with the support of the community and state, eventually helped bring the Chuck Mathena Center to life. On July 11, 2008, the center welcomed its inaugural performance, opening the doors to a world of music, theater, education, and cultural experiences right here in our small Appalachian town.
Charlie and Marquetta are the kind of community pillars whose contributions deserve to be remembered. Their generosity wasn't simply about creating a beautiful building. It was about giving other people's children opportunities, bringing families together, and creating something that would continue enriching lives for generations.
Their story reminds us that community history is shaped through both visible leadership and steadfast partnership. It is found in a career of service, a loving family, the courage to endure loss, and the decision to keep giving even after life has changed forever. Charlie and Marquetta's influence is woven into the spirit of the Mathena Center and into the opportunities made possible through their family's foundation.
And that legacy continues today through the dedication of Executive Director Candace Wilson and the entire Chuck Mathena Center team. Together, they work tirelessly to bring nationally recognized entertainers, world-class orchestras, and remarkable productions to a community that might otherwise have to travel hours for these experiences. From building professional relationships and marketing performances to coordinating the front of house, welcoming guests, maintaining the facility, and managing countless behind-the-scenes details, their graciousness, professionalism, and commitment deserve recognition. These are people who work long hours, evenings, and weekends to create wonderful experiences for the families of southern West Virginia.
As a professional cleaning company, we understand the work required to care for a facility of this magnitude. Cleanliness, presentation, organization, and attention to detail are important parts of making every guest feel welcomed and valued. We also recognize that some of the hardest-working individuals are often those whose efforts go unnoticed.
What makes the Chuck Mathena Center truly special isn't just the beautiful theater or the famous names appearing on its stage. It's the child discovering a love for music, the grandparents making memories with their grandchildren, and the families enjoying experiences that might not otherwise have been available to them.
And to think that so much of this began with two parents who loved their son and wanted his memory to mean something beautiful.
Charlie and Marquetta Mathena's history is an important part of that story. Their love for Chuck, their partnership, and their commitment to honoring their son's memory helped turn personal sorrow into scholarships, cultural opportunities, and a gathering place for the community. Their legacy can be seen in every student encouraged, every family welcomed, every performance enjoyed, and every young person who discovers that the arts can open a door to a larger world.
From all of us at Home Harmony & Commercial Cleaning LLC, we extend our appreciation to Charlie and Marquetta Mathena for their generosity and lasting contributions to our community, and to Candace Wilson and every member of the staff who continue carrying that vision forward.
Because sometimes the greatest legacy we leave behind isn't measured by what we accomplish for ourselves, but by the opportunities we create for others.
And the Mathena family's legacy is a beautiful reminder of just how much love can accomplish.
❤️ Home Harmony & Commercial Cleaning LLC
Looking beyond the surface. Recognizing the people, pride, and purpose behind the places that make our communities home.
📍 Chuck Mathena Center | Princeton, West Virginia
The Chuck Mathena Center in Princeton, WV offers beautiful event spaces for all kinds of special occasions! 🖤
💍 Wedding Ceremonies & Receptions
🎉 Birthday Parties & Milestone Celebrations
🍼 Baby Showers & Bridal Showers
🥂 Anniversary Parties & Engagement Celebrations
👨👩👧👦 Family Reunions & Private Gatherings
🏢 Business Meetings & Corporate Events
🎓 Graduations & Award Ceremonies
❤️ Fundraisers & Community Events
🎭 Concerts, Performances & Special Events
🥗Fully equipped kitchen
🚻Fully functional Bathrooms w/Shower facilities
💃Dressing Rooms
🪑Table,Table Clothes & Seating Rental
♿️Wheelchair Accessible seating and facilities
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, the Chuck Mathena Center has spaces to help bring your event to life!
Visit Chuck Mathena Center or www.ChuckMathenaCenter..org
NO third party booking avalible. You Must Call or visit their website for all future bookings or ticket purchases