Mattie Laura Barrett (Bird), 96, of Austin, Texas, died Saturday March 14, 2020. She was born in the community of Reeds Mountain in Rusk County, Texas on June 13, 1923. She was preceded in death by husband O.B. Barrett and second husband Glenn Burke; parents Howell Lee and Sue Deloney Bird; siblings and half-siblings Lois, Eddie, LaMerle, Lovie, Ouida, Billy Dick, Leroy, H.L., and Jerry.
Mattie is survived by sons Larry Barrett (Jerrie) of Cedar Park, Texas, and Michael Barrett (Mary) of Austin, Texas, grandchildren Eleanor and Raymond, brother Gary Bird of Louisiana, and several beloved nieces and nephews.
Mattie grew up in Rusk County, Texas surrounded by a large family, grandparents, cousins, and good friends. She married O.B. Barrett in 1939, moving with him to Austin in 1942 to work at the Austin State Hospital. Mattie and O.B. both had long careers at the state hospital with Mattie retiring after 35 years of service. During her career she pursued nursing education and earned her LVN designation. She was a proud and caring nurse working at the state hospital and several nursing homes in north central Austin. Her full nursing career spanned over 47 years. She took great pride in providing kind, compassionate care.
Mattie considered her faith in God and her family to be the most important parts of her life. She simply believed in treating others like she would want to be treated.
In her retirement, Mattie remained actively involved in her church community, most recently at Crestview Baptist Church, played in weekly domino games, had Wednesday breakfasts at Dan’s with her sons, and enjoyed spending time with family. Mattie was brought much joy, and perhaps extended life, when she became a first-time grandmother at age 83! Mattie took delight in spending time with and caring for Ellie and Raymond who lived just across the street from her.
She was a delightful, kind, and warm woman with a wicked sense of humor who will be missed by all who were graced by knowing her.
A private burial will be held on March 24, 2020 at 11:00 AM, at the Old Shiloh Cemetery near Mount Enterprise, Texas.
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