Mattie Simmons Willis was the only daughter born to Turner and Obelia Simmons on July 22, 1933 in Rusk, Texas. Mattie attended and gratuated from Emmitt Scott High School in Tyler.
Shortly after graduation, she married L C Willis Jr. To this union was born seven children.
She dedicated her life to Christ at an early age and joined Shady Grove CME Church. Mattie was the lead singer in the choir. She loved to sing. Mattie later became a member of Faith Holy Tabernacle Church. She loved God and she loved her family!
Mattie was preceded in death by her parents, Turner and Obelia Simmons, her husband, LC Willis Jr., her stepson Bobby Carl Willis, her daughter Johnnie Clayton, her grandson MarlonTurner, and great grandson Marlon Turner Jr. She was also proceeded in death by her brothers, Roosevelt Simmons, R.L. Simmons, Finas Simmons, Elmo Simmons, Leo Simmons and her beloved Aunt Mattie Colston.
Mattie transitioned peacefully on May 7, 2025. She leaves to cherish her memories six children: C Earl Willis (Geraldine) of Houston, Liz Willis Ealy (Malcom) of Grand Prairie, Valmer Willis Turner (Fred) of Sunnyvale, Sam Willis (Antoinette) of Rusk, Bessie Willis Harris of Rusk, and Sylvia Willis Lett of Garland. She also leaves behind a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Matties words of wisdom: "Be nice. Treat people right. Don’t be a show-off. Speak back to people when people speak to you. Be loving and kind to all."- Mattie Simmons Willis
Services are as follows:
Public Visitation
Friday
May 16, 2025
10:00am-5:00pm
Mercy/McGowan Funeral Home
415 N. Main St.
Jacksonville, TX 75766
Funeral Service
Saturday
May 17, 2025
12:00 noon
Shady Grove C.M.E. Church
24311 US Hwy. 84 East
Rusk, TX 75785
Interment:
Woodville Cemetery
