Mattie was born on October 18, 1933, in Saltville, Virginia, to Robert Church and Nora Harris Church. She was the youngest of twelve children, growing up in a large family that helped shape her strong will, resilience, and independence.
She later moved to Mansfield, Ohio, where she raised her family and built a life defined by hard work and determination. A true self-made woman and pioneer of her time. Mattie spent many years as a manager with KFC before transitioning into Housekeeping Management, where she continued working until her retirement at the remarkable age of 80.
Mattie lived life fully and passionately. She had a lifelong love for Bingo and was rarely happier than when she had a card in her hand and a chance to win. She found peace and joy working in her flower garden, enjoyed long walks, and loved traveling whenever she had the opportunity. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, vacationing with them whenever possible. In her younger years, she bowled in leagues and proudly participated as a member of the Eagles Drill Team.
Proud, sometimes stubborn, and always resilient, Mattie was known as a fighter who stood her ground and never backed down from anything she believed in. She didn’t take slack from anyone and lived life on her own terms—something her family admired deeply.
She is survived by her children, Gerald DeWitt; Kim (Chuck) Lynch; and Michelle Zucker; and her grandchildren, DeWayne (Shelby) Lynch, Stacy Lynch, David Zucker, Tyler Zucker, Justin (Renee) DeWitt, Sara DeWitt, Jeremiah Clifton, Shelby DeWitt, and Jeremy DeWitt many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her three brothers and eight sisters; son in law Dave Zucker and her beloved son, Mark DeWitt.
Mattie will be remembered for her grit, her independence, her love of Bingo, and the unwavering strength that defined her life. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, hard work, and a family who loved her deeply.
Family and friends are invited to visitation on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond Street, Mansfield, OH 44902. The funeral will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 12:00 pm at the funeral home. Burial will be at Mansfield Cemetery.
Wappner Funeral Directors – Mansfield is honored to serve the Pickens family.
