Obituary of Emma Jean Matias
Emma Jean Ellison was born on November 16, 1933 in Middlesboro, Kentucky. She was the middle of three children born to Clyde and Annette (Russell) Ellison. Emma graduated from Dundee High School with the Class of 1951. On October 16, 1954 she wed the love of her life, John P. Matias, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Maybee, Michigan. The couple enjoyed thirty-seven years of marriage and were blessed with a daughter and two sons.
In addition to caring for her family, Emma was employed at the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency in Monroe, Michigan for many years. She later worked as a secretary at London Township Hall in Milan, Michigan. She also kept her landscaping lush with a wide variety of flowers. Emma had a compassionate soul and advocated for many philanthropic causes. She especially held St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association charities close to her heart.
Emma Jean Matias, age 90, of Dundee, Michigan passed away peacefully at Hampton Manor Assisted Living on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. Her passing was preceded by her parents; her husband: John P. Matias in 1991.
To cherish her memory, she leaves her daughter: Debra Matias (Roger Woodruff) of Clearwater, Florida; two sons: John W. (Katherine) Matias and James Matias of Maybee, Michigan; two granddaughters: Chandra Matias and Shannon (David) Young; three great grandchildren: Elizabeth, Brynn, and Ronan; sister: Mary (Linford) Price of Milan, Michigan; and brother: William (Karen) Ellison of Jackson, Michigan.
Friends may gather on Sunday, January 7, 2024 from 1:00 to 6:00pm and Monday, January 8, 2024 from 12:30 to 1:30pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Emma’s Life officiated by Pastor Rick Massingill will be held at on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 1:30pm also at Merkle’s followed by a procession to St. Joseph Cemetery in Maybee, Michigan for burial.
Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.