Mattie Lee Willhite

Mattie Lee Willhite, born on September 13, 1936, in Dighton, Kansas, passed away peacefully at her home in Ottawa, Kansas, on December 17, 2024. She was the beloved daughter of Lewis B. and Nina Lee (Sharp) West.

Mattie’s life was characterized by her dedication to her family and the various roles she embraced throughout her career. She graduated from Lane County Community High School in 1954 and furthered her education at Ottawa University and Neosho County Community College. Her professional journey began in the 1960s as an Order Filler for Hallmark in Lawrence, followed by her role as a Seamstress for H.D. Lee in Ottawa. From 1966 to 1971, she contributed to the Sunflower Ammunition Plant in DeSoto, Kansas. Subsequently, she worked as a Production Technician Inspector for King Radio from 1977 to 1993, and then served as a Medical Aid for Ottawa Retirement Village until her retirement in 2003.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mattie was also recognized for her involvement in her community and her church. She was a proud member of the First Baptist Church in Ottawa, where she found cherished moments as part of a loving congregation. Additionally, her passion for music led her to join the Sweet Adeline, Ottawa Chapter, where she sang from 1960 to 1975.

Mattie's interests were diverse; she loved singing, reading, solving sudoku puzzles, and sewing. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, including her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Mattie is survived by her daughters, Brenda Yohe (Thomas) of Ottawa, Kansas, and Lori Hays (Patrick) of Lawrence, Kansas, along with her sister, Karen Poggamyer of Ogen, Utah. She was the proud grandmother of ten grandchildren, twenty-eight great-grandchildren, and eleven great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her legacy of love and kindness.

On January 26, 1957, Mattie was united in marriage in Ottawa, Kansas to June B. Willhite. He preceded her in death on July 21, 2002.

Along with her husband June, she was predeceased in death by her parents; her sons, David Willhite and James Willhite; and several grandchildren, including Joshua Hays, Kassey Hays, Matthew Hays, Holley Lamberd, and T.J. Yohe.

Visitation will be held on December 21, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Ottawa, Kansas, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Memorial Service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The inurnment will take place on December 27, 2024, at Hope Cemetery in Ottawa, Kansas, beginning at 1:00 PM.

Mattie Lee Willhite’s warm spirit, strong work ethic, and devotion to her family will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She touched many lives and leaves behind a legacy of love and strength that will endure through her family and friends.

The family suggests memorial contributions to First Baptist Church c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. 

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