1 Corinthians 13:13
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Shirley Mattis, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, revered matriarch, and steadfast pillar of strength. Shirley peacefully departed from this world on March 11, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, leaving a profound legacy of love, wisdom, and kindness that will forever resonate in our hearts.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, to Corine Sease and Charles Folk in 1939, Shirley was a vibrant soul who exemplified the essence of family devotion. At the tender age of 19, she embraced motherhood while securing a job as an operator at New York Telephone Company (currently Verizon). Over the next 40 years, she worked overtime, holidays, and weekends to ensure her children had necessities and opportunities.
Shirley prioritized education, ensuring her children and grandchildren had access to opportunities. She supported tuition, housing expenses, collegiate pursuits, and dreams during her long hours. She was not just a caregiver but also a modern grandmother, embracing technology to stay connected with her grandchildren across generations. From texts to Facebook and Instagram, as well as pop culture, she effortlessly bridged the generational gap. Her mastery of completing puzzles on her iPad showcased her adaptability and spirit, endearing her to her family and her grandchildren's high school and college friends.
Throughout her life, Shirley was a beacon of support, offering guidance, encouragement, and comfort to her family and friends in times of joy and sorrow. Her compassionate presence touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts. She embodied selflessness and love as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Shirley's home was a haven of warmth and hospitality where we created cherished memories, and laughter filled the air. Sunday dinners were especially memorable because they often featured her legendary macaroni and cheese, chocolate chip cookies, and carrot cake. Shirley's love for her family knew no bounds, and she cherished every moment spent with them, showering them with affection and wisdom through her many tales and stories of the past.
Shirley's talents extended beyond being a skilled cruciverbalist, storyteller and technologist; she was an exceptional crocheter. Despite her best efforts, none of her children and grandchildren could match her skills. Her crocheted baby blankets became a cherished tradition, welcoming every new addition to the family with warmth and love.
Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will inspire generations. Though she may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will forever guide us with cherished memories and enduring love.
In honoring Shirley's memory, we find solace in knowing she is loved by the ones who preceded her, finding eternal peace in the embrace of the divine. May her spirit inspire us to live with compassion, strength, and humility, always keeping her memory alive.
Though Shirley may no longer walk beside us, her love will remain an everlasting beacon of light, guiding us through life's journey until we meet again in the embrace of eternity. Rest in peace. Your love will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts.
Shirley is survived by her daughters, Lenise Zahran and Sabrina Wright and her husband, David; her son Michael Mattis and his partner, Sabrina; her sisters, Delores Paul and Charlotte Facey; nine grandchildren, Chandre Mattis, Samia Zahran, Taj Zahran, Michael Mattis, Jasmyn Mattis, Shane Bossierre, Miles Mattis, Mason Mattis, and David Wright; five great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives and friends. Shirley was preceded in death by her daughter, Darlene Mattis Shah; her son in law, Ziyad Shah; her granddaughter, Tahira Emiliana Shah; her grandson Amr Zahran; and her sister, Ernestine Mattos.
The family has designated The American Cancer Society for memorial contributions.
DONATIONS
The American Cancer SocietyPO Box 6704, Hagerstown, Maryland 21741
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