Mattie Mae Stevens, 91, of Reading, PA, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Southeastern Veterans Center in Spring City, PA. Born on July 28, 1933, in Trenton, South Carolina, Mattie was the only child of the late Sara (Dandy) Stevens and Maxie Neal. She is now joyfully reunited with her son, Jarvis Randolph, and her granddaughter, Iesha Young, who preceded her in death.
Growing up in the segregated South, Mattie displayed resilience and ambition well beyond her years. As a young Black woman during a transformative period in American history, she broke barriers by enlisting in the United States Air Force after graduating high school. Serving during the Korean Conflict, Mattie held her head high in a predominantly male, predominantly white military, earning the respect of her peers. Her honorable discharge marked the conclusion of her military service but not her lifelong dedication to hard work and perseverance.
Mattie made her career at Western Electric, later Lucent Technologies, where she worked diligently on the assembly line for 30 years, until her well-deserved retirement. She poured her energy into her church and community, becoming a cherished member of Zion Baptist Church and a missionary. Mattie extended her love and care as a volunteer with the Red Cross and served on the volunteer board at Berks Heim for an incredible 30 years. She was also a proud member of American Legion Post 962 George Washington Carver on 3rd Street.
Known for her warmth and generosity, Mattie’s kitchen was always filled with love and the appetizing aromas of her home-cooked meals. Feeding family and friends was her love language, and she was happiest when surrounded by those she loved. Trips to the casino brought her immense joy, and her home reflected her deep admiration for elephants, adorned with a cherished collection of figurines and memorabilia celebrating the majestic animal.
Mattie's spirit will be carried on by her daughter Pamela Singleton; and her 5 grandchildren Jarvis, Shana, Monica, Lavonda and Tia. She also leaves behind 7 great grandchildren Cierra, Morgan, Avarie, Kyle, Kennedy, Jaren and Thaddeus; 2 great great grandchildren Olivia and Akim and a host of adoptive grandchildren to cherish her memory.
A viewing for Mattie will be held Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Wyomissing Church of the Brethren, 2200 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, PA 19610.Home going service will promptly commence in church at 11:00 AM, with Rev. Dr. James Edlow Sr. officiating. Graveside committal with military honors will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Ft. Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, 60 Indiantown Gap Rd., Annville, PA 17003. Attendees are kindly asked to arrive at the cemetery by 10:15 am.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mattie's memory may be made to the Foundation for Thymic Cancer Research,155 E. Boca Raton Rd., #718, Boca Raton, FL 33432
Mattie leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and determination, inspiring all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered. "A bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck," as you always said, and that’s exactly how we’ll hold you in our hearts. Rest in eternal peace, dear Mattie.
