Willie Williford Mattison

Willie Williford Mattison, affectionately known as “WL,” “Matt,” “Mr. Mattison,” and “Uncle Matt,” transitioned on January 22, 2025, at the age of 85 in Conyers, Georgia. Born on April 15, 1939, in Williamston, South Carolina, to Saylor Lee Mattison and Lona Thompson Mattison. Willie lived a life defined by dedication, service, and an unwavering love for his family, career, and community.

Raised in Williamston, SC, Willie attended Spearman High School, graduating with honors. He furthered his education at South Carolina State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree with honors, and later obtained a Master’s degree in Earth Science from Virginia State University.

Willie’s professional journey spanned several decades and exemplified his passion for education and the sciences. He began his career as an Earth Science teacher in the Dorchester County School District in Summerville, SC and the Greenville Public School System. He then worked as a Senior Geologist for Atlantic Richfield Oil and Gas Company (ARCO) for 17 years in Dallas, Texas, and Denver, Colorado, where he was one of only two African American geologists in the Colorado region during the 1970s. Later, Willie returned to his first love—teaching—working in the Denver Public School System as a Math instructor until his retirement.

Willie was an active member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Denver, Colorado from 1975 to 1985. He was deeply committed to his faith, which played a significant part in his spiritual journey. His faith was a constant source of strength throughout his life.

Willie’s commitment to service extended beyond his professional and spiritual life. He was a proud lifetime member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., initiated into the South Carolina State University Xi Psi chapter in April 1960, and later an active member of the Denver alumni Chi Phi chapter. He was a letterman and member of the South Carolina State University men’s baseball team and participated in numerous clubs, including the S.C.A. and East End Clubs, as well as physical education initiatives.

Willie is survived by his daughters, Stacey Mattison Jenkins (spouse: Donald Kenneth Jenkins) and Sonja E. Mattison; his brother, Floyd Mattison; his former wife, Rose “Posie” Mattison; as well as a host of the following nieces and nephews; Theresa Mattison (m. Maurice Pope/Fraternity Brother-MI), Barbara Mattison (MI), Roosevelt Jr. Caliente Mattison, Phyllis Lewis (MI), Rose Goff (m. William Goff), Tyrone Jackson (m. Jackie Jackson, SC), Cinderetha Payton (m. Dr. Cecil Payton, MD), Sylvester Jackson (SC), Ralph “Bubba” Holloway (m. Ann Holloway, SC), Reginald Holloway (SC), Ron Mattison (m. Patricia Mattison, NC), Micheal Mattison, Pamela Mattison Cantey (m. Dereck Cantey-NC), Lorenzo Archer (GA), Alexis Archer Alarcon (m. Simone Alarcon, VA), and Caesar Smith (CO). Willie was predeceased by his parents, his siblings Roosevelt Mattison, Melzetta Jackson, Saylor Lee Mattison, Margaret Holloway, and Minne Lee.

Willie’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, wisdom, and profound love for his family and community. His life touched many, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” – John 14:1

Rest in peace, Matt. Your love, guidance, and legacy will never be forgotten.

A visitation for Willie will be held Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Floral Hills Funeral Home & Cremation, 3150 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker, GA 30084, followed by a funeral from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

Willie will be laid to rest in Floral Hills Memory Gardens, 3000 Lawrenceville Hwy, Tucker, Georgia 30084.