Mattie Caraway Funeral Program

As we celebrate the life and legacy of Mattie Beatrice Mathis Caraway, we pause to recall some very cherished memories. Mattie was the third child of twelve children born to the parentage of the late Curtis Sr., and Evie Bell Mathis, in Palmer, Texas. She attended schools in the Dallas Independent School District, graduating from Lincoln High School. It was at Lincoln High School in Dallas, Texas where Mattie Mathis met Bruce Caraway, her sweetheart and soul mate. This loving couple was married in 1948, and remained united for 67 years. Mattie received her advanced degree and license in cosmetology from the Franklin Beauty School, Inc. As a businesswoman she was the owner of her own beauty salon, Mattie’s Beauty Nook. Many awards, trophies and honors are credited to her success as an accomplished hair stylist, cosmetologist, and beautician. During her early childhood, she professed Christ and united with Magnolia C.M.E. Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. C.B. Johnson (along with her parents and siblings). In later years, Mattie continued her commitment to the Lord and she and her family united with True Lee Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. Donald Ray Parish, Sr. For many years, Mattie served faithfully in the choir as well as other ministries/activities in her Church until her health began to decline. Following many years of declining health and extended illness at the age of 94 years, Mattie relinquished the challenges of sickness and life, and transitioned into eternal rest on Friday, March 24, 2023. Mattie is preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Sr.; her parents, Curtis and Evie, siblings, Essie, Bessie, Curtis Jr., O.B., Lee and Douglas. Among the many family members who will continue to cherish Mattie's precious memories are two sons, Bruce, Jr. (Alfreda) of Marshall, Texas, exceptionally devoted Dwaine Richard (Barbara) of Dallas, Texas and one daughter Estella Vernice Savage of Dallas, Texas; siblings, Johnny T. of Dallas, Texas, Mittie Mitchell, of Hampton, Georgia, Mary Guillory (Elward Sr.) of Houston, Texas, Daisy Nelson of Houston, Texas, Dovie Vaughn of Austin, Texas. Mattie was very proud of her grandchildren Raymond, Sr., Hawaii, Melody, Misty and Nathaneal; great-grandchildren, Maui, Lani, Brandon Jr., Raymond Jr., and Alexa; one great-great grandchild, Amoni. There are many nieces, nephews, church families, relatives and friends, who will also continue to share and recall fond memories of Mattie Caraway.