Mattie Bell Thomas

Mattie Bell Thomas was born in Belazona, Mississippi on July 1, 1920. She was the third child of 10 born from the union of Samuel Thomas and Kizziah Griffin-Thomas. As a young woman, she married Larry James Sykes. Two sons were born from this union. She became Mattie B. Williams when she married Walter J. Williams her husband of more than 42 years. Those who knew Mattie knew that she was a God-fearing Christian woman. Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, IL was her spiritual home for more than 40 years. Mrs. Williams served faithfully in various capacities including but not limited to being a member of the Flower Circle and the Pinkie Reid Circle of Senior Mission2. Ms. Mattie B. enjoyed modeling for the church's Annual Salad Tea. Her Favorite church hymn was "It Is Well." Mrs. Williams touched the lives of many people. Her desire to serve others was evident in the way that she lived her life. She both taught preschool aged children and drove them to school on a bus. Mattie always said, "Procrastination is a thief of time. Please don't let it rob you!" She enjoyed traveling with her husband Walter, spending time with her children and grandchildren. and taking photographs of beautiful people, places, and things. Mrs. Williams should also be rememberd for her giving heart. Mattie B. cared for the sick, gave to those in need of her help, and loved her family unconditionally. God called her home after a prolonged illness on Wednesday, August 1, 2007. She leaves to mourn her passing a loving husband, Walter J. Williams; two sons: Dr. Reginald Sykes (Robbie) and Larry James Sykes Jr.; Four sisters Nola Rice, Lily Kimble (Theodis) , Mable Spencer, and Wardeen Riley (Thurman). She also leaves five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends. A visitation will be held Tuesday August 7, 2007 at the New Life Missionary Baptist Church from 10-11 AM with funeral services to follow at 11 AM at the church. Officiating will be Rev. Dr. Andrew Ford. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery. PDF Printable Version