Gracie gave her life to Christ at an early age. She later became a member of the Morning Star Baptist Church in Monticello, AR. She was a deaconess (a mother of the church) and a faithful member of the choir which she loved singing. She also was a member of the Eastern Star. Gracie's life span included housekeeping, head cook for Drew High School, a hair dresser, homemaker, and retired from Burlington Industries.
Gracie moved to Oxnard, CA, in 2004 to live with her children. She attended and later became a member of the St. Paul Baptist Church, which remained a member until her death. Mother, Momma Gracie and Grandma (which she was most referred by), was very loved by her family. She was always there for her family, as well as anyone that called upon her.
Eternal rest was granted to her on July 17, 2016. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hat Matthews. She was the fourth of eight children which six preceded her in death who were her brothers, Albert, George, Earl, and Thurstee Daniel and her sister, Mary Shaw. She had three children which one son preceded her in death, Bill Thompson.
Mourning her loss yet rejoicing her life is sister, Florence Butler; son, Kenneth (Yvonne) Railey; daughters, Katherine (Henry) Davis and Judy (Walt) Floyd; grandsons, Kevin (Marisol) Jamerson, Henry (Exzeria) Railey and Dwight Davis; 11 great grandchildren, 9 great great grandchildren, 4 great great great children; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends
She was loved by all lives she touched!
Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2016 at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery. Arrangements by Stephenson-Dearman. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(5)
The Briggs Family
, AR Thursday, July 28, 2016 Mrs. Gracie was a beautiful and loving person to all she knew and to all she didn't know. I remember when her sister (Ms. Mary Shaw) introduced me to her as my future babysitter. It was an instant connection between the two of us. Mrs. Gracie had a humble, meek, loving and giving spirit. You find very few people who truly exemplify those types of characteristics. I have so many memories she and I had together, especially the morning talks over baked sweet potatoes and coffee. What an odd combination, but a warm, sincere fellowship. The afternoon swings we had were inviting as well. Mrs. Gracie had a heart of gold for children, and a ministry of help. I truly believe she lived a life that was pleasing to the Farther and He saw her works and ushered her home. My heart is saddened, but re-joyful that she is at peace and resting in the arms of the Lord.Joy GREEN
Los Angeles, CA Wednesday, July 27, 2016 She was a beautifu & loving person. My sympathy to the family.Donald Flentroy
Crossett, AR Wednesday, July 27, 2016 I am saddened by the death of your mother."Mrs. Gracie" was a kind, caring, considerate and loving lady. She was an asset to Drew High School and the Monticello community.
Linnie Edwards
Mckinney, TX Friday, July 22, 2016 So sorry for your loss. Mrs. Grace was such a beautiful person. She had a great soul inside and out, she will surely be miss. I remember stopping by her home on Sunday evening and she would be sitting in the front yard, her and Mrs. Patterson and Mrs. Youngblood, just talking about church and the lord. Those was some great times. I learn a lot from those ladies that had so much wisdom. All l can say is God got another great angle. Family be strong and I will keep each of you in my prayers.Robert and Gwendolyn Rafter
Stone Mountain, GA Thursday, July 21, 2016 We are so sad to hear of Mrs. Matthews passing. We are so thankful to have had her in our lives as a newly married couple. She taught us so much about being devoted, have integrity and overall good character. She is back with Mr. Hat. They were just good people who loved each other and the Lord. We had so many happy times. Our biggest laughs were at all the fires Mr. Hat could start that required the fire department She loved her children and grandchildren.