Mattie Irene Wilson’s journey began in Wilson, Louisiana on September 1, 1927.  Mattie was the first-born of the late Robert and Leola Wilson, also preceded her in death was her brothers; Arthur Wilson, John Earl Wilson, Woodrow Wilson, Floyd Hawkins and two sisters; Mamie Wilson and Mearlee Chaney.

It was on a Wednesday at the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Ethel, Louisiana, under the leadership of Rev. C.N. Morris where Mattie received Christ at an early age and was baptized.

Mattie began her education in the East Feliciana School Parrish Ethel, Louisiana.  Graduating in 1947 from McKinnley High School, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

In September 1947 her childhood sweetheart Jessie Lee Armstrong returned to Ethel, Louisiana from his military tour of duty, where they were united in holy matrimony on September 7, 1947. Together they embarked on their own journey filled with love, life and mutual respect. Jessie and Mattie became a powerful team that uplifted and inspired each other. During this union they became proud parents of three daughters, Linda, Gloria, and Deborah.

Moving from Ethel to New Orleans, Louisiana, Mattie and Jessie continued to strive to make a good life for each other. Their path obviously was paved with deep spirituality and grace. They traveled to settle in Cleveland, Ohio in 1951.

Mattie began her career as an EKG Technician at the Veterans Administration Hospital and Euclid Hospital where she retired after many years of service.  Once retired she didn’t stop because she loved working with people obtaining employment as a sales associate at Sears Department Store, demo sales at Finest Super Market and the Homewood Senior Living Center.

In 1952 Mattie and her family joined Second Metropolitan Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend B.T. Birmingham. Mattie faithfully served as a Deaconess for many years and then transitioned to the Mother’s Board. She participated in the church Women’s Day Choirs, Sunday School and wherever she was needed to serve. Continuing in Christian service Mattie served under the leadership of Pastors Thomas Allmond and Napoleon A. Harris IV.

Mother Armstrong’s passion for the word of God spilled over into becoming a member of the Providence Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Rodney Maiden. Mother Armstrong served with the Senior Ministry with Mother Helen Floyd as long as their health allowed. Pastor Maiden often says if you are looking for wisdom and guidance seek out our senior saints. Pastor values this ministry is a vital asset to our church and community.

Mother Armstrong’s love for people touched the lives of many families and friends. She always says “I Love my peoples, I might not like their ways but God loves them all, I don’t care if they are red, black, white, blue or green God loves us all, Don’t He”

She is survived by her loving devoted daughters, Linda, Gloria (Herman), and Deborah (aka Dee-Dee) grandchildren: Yvette (Jewvon), Tiffany (Lawrence II), Sean, Brian, Kristopher; great grandchildren; Milan, Lawrence III (Tre’) and LaRae; one sister: Zearlee Milligan, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Sister-n-love Claudia Hawkins, Baton Rouge, Louisiana: a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, adopted daughters, sons and friends.

Humbly Submitted, The Family