Bernice Mattis

Bernice Elizabeth Mattis, 52, of Danville, passed from this life Wednesday, December 7th 2005 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. She was born on March 13th, 1953 in Danville, Illinois, to Charlotte Ann and Richard Harold Carpenter. She was preceded in death by a sister who died at birth, and her parents. Survivors include her husband, Charles Dean Mattis Jr., daughter Jamie (Ed) DeVore of Danville, son Chip (Jessie) Mattis of St. Joseph, and daughter Amanda Mattis of Danville and two step grandchildren, Rachel and Aaron DeVore. She was a 1971 graduate from Danville High School and the University of Illinois in 1976 with a Bachelors Degree in Education. She was employed by CCL for 22 years as a quote administrator and for the last nine years by Exal Corp. of Youngstown, Ohio as a sales manager. She was a sports fan in the true sense of the word. A supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals, she often let the Cub fans in the family know which team held the most World Championships. However, her enthusiasm for baseball was no comparison to the passion she possessed for U of I sports. Whether around the television or at the games in person, she could be counted on to be the cheerleader of the group. Bernice developed a love of music as a child, playing both the piano and violin. This remained an integral part of her life, which she passed onto her children. It was this love of music which led her to her husband, while working as an accompanist for a voice instructor. The two began a courtship that led them to commit themselves to each other on June 5th, 1972. They remained living in Danville, raising a family where she became involved in several community groups including Kiwanis, Habitat for Humanity, the Danville Symphony Orchestra, and many others where she served her community in any way she could. Bernice not only instilled an appreciation for music to her children, but provided private piano lessons for nearly 15 years before commitments to family, work, and church prevented her from doing so. Diagnosed with bone cancer shortly after being married, Bernice underwent surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Minneapolis, MN. Surviving cancer served to strengthen her faith and made her determined to share it with others. Bernices faith was the keystone to her character. Her friendly personality benefited her not only professionally, but also as an ambassador for Christ. Her love of music, coupled with her strong faith, led her to serving the congregation of the New Life Christian Center as a member of the ministry team by being a cornerstone of the praise and worship team. For 25 years Bernice has been a recognizable figure leading the worship team each week behind the piano or keyboard in regular and special services. Over the years she turned down many opportunities to perform professionally with Christian groups so she could concentrate on her family and faith. In all her endeavors she went out of her way to provide for her family and friends whenever there was need. She was quick with an encouraging word and offered advice only when sought. Her family was the most important part of her life, eagerly embracing the additions of a son-in-law, daughter-in-law and step grandchildren. Her strength in understanding and compassion was relied upon, her warm smile always sought, her stalwart friendship a blessing. She will be deeply missed by co-workers, friends, and family for these and the numerous intangibles she brought to improve everyday life. A celebration of the life of Bernice Elizabeth Mattis will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, December 12th, 2005 at the New Life Christian Center, with friend and Pastor Archie Neal officiating the service. A visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Sunday at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center. Entombment will be at Sunset Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the Autism Society of America 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 300 Bethesda Maryland 20814-3067.