Edith Shelby Matte

Edith was born on January 21, 1921 in Beaumont, Texas and married Capt. Joseph Zannet Matte on December 31, 1944 after he returned from the European theater during World War II where he was a P-47 pilot and a fighter ace. Over a 31 year Air Force career, they moved over 20 times, living in six states, and four countries.

Joe retired as an Air Force Colonel in 1973 and they built their retirement home in San Antonio. They traveled frequently visiting their daughter and son at various locations around the world. They were active members of the American Fighter Aces Association and the 362 Fighter Group Association.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Col. Joseph Zannet Matte; her three sisters: Ethel, Evelyn, and Geneva; and her great-grandson, Colin Joseph Zeitler.

She is survived by her two children: Joseph Rodney Matte and Linda Ann Norris; her five grandchildren: Kimberly G. Balstad, Sommer R. McDougal, Wendy M. Zeitler, Meghan E. Gregory, and Pamela J. Matte; and her five great grandchildren: Caleb, Sydney, Luke, Clayton, and Camden.

Despite many recent illnesses she managed to always maintain a strong cheerful spirit. Nana leaves behind a legacy of love and many cherished memories by her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by her family and those who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations may be made to the "Ronald McDonald House Charities,' 4803 Sid Katz, San Antonio, Texas 78229, 210 614-2554, www.rmhc.org, in memory of Colin Joseph Zeitler, her great grandson.