William Ernest Mattison

William Ernest Mattison, “Billepop”, died peacefully in Alexandria, Virginia and joined his Lord May 9, 2020. Billepop’s zest for life brought joy and light to all who knew him. He was a vivacious spirit and his smile and laugh brightened all around him. Bill was born in Birmingham, Alabama June 11, 1931 to George A Mattison, Jr and Ernestine Carriger Mattison. After foundational education in Mountain Brook and Sewanee Military Academy, he matriculated at Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now Auburn University) where he was involved in ROTC, Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering. He married Mary Elyse Johnson of Geneva, Alabama in 1952. He began his professional career with Woodstock Slag Corporation in Birmingham and moved to Houston, Texas in 1954 to establish the Houston Slag Association. He assumed the Presidency of the National Slag Association in 1984 and settled in Alexandria, Virginia. Among his many philanthropic endeavors, he was an active parishioner of St. John the Divine, in Houston, Texas and Christ Church in Alexandria, Virginia. He was a dedicated member and eventual Potentate of Arabia Shrine Temple and served as Chair of the Shriners Crippled Children’s Hospitals. He was also a member of Scottish Rite and the Royal Order of Jesters, Kiwanis Club of Houston, and many other charitable organizations. He travelled avidly, visiting countries across the globe with family and friends and founded the George Washington Yacht Club. A generous neighbor to all at his condominium, Marina Towers, he was elected President of the condominium association where he brought many social committees to fruition, especially the Outdoor Gourmet Guild. His love of life created an indelible sense of community. He was preceded in death by his parents and much adored Aunt, Eloise Carriger, his brother, George A Mattison, III and sister, Mary Mattison Bledsoe; devoted wife, Mary Elyse, son, William Ernest Mattison, Jr; son-in-law, Kenneth Farah; and beloved silky terrier, Yot. He is survived by daughter-in-law Mrs. William Ernest Mattison, Jr., “Mary” and son, William Ernest Mattison, III “Trey,” Houston, Texas; daughter Mary Elyse Mattison Farah, “Lysa,” Alexandria, VA and children Mary Elyse Farah, Dallas, TX and William Mattison Farah, New Orleans, LA; and daughter Martha Lynn Mattison Till, husband Tim Till, Houston, TX, and children Ashely Till Wallace, Ireland and Garrett Till, Houston, TX. Many thanks for the caregivers who provided love and comfort during his last year, in particular Mariatou Toure-Cole, Mohammed Yateh, Rosetta Mara, Beatrice Lartey and Almaz Desta. A memorial service and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Alzheimer’s Association, Historic Christ Church, Alexandria, VA or the church of your choice.