Lucille Mary Mattice affectionately known as Star passed away peacefully on October 3, 2016 at the age of 94 in Mesa, Arizona. Lucille was born April 28, 1922 in Safford, Arizona. Lucille attended Safford schools, and continued her education at Gila Academy presently known as the Eastern Arizona College graduating, and continuing on to the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona.
Lucille’s love for music started at an early age, and was recognized by many throughout her life for her musical talents. Lucille blessed and touched countless lives through her music of playing the piano and organ. Lucille was known for her genuine concern and love by those she taught, recognizing their individual potential, and making their future greater and much brighter. Lucille was well respected in her community for her dedication and commitment, and valued by those who knew her.
In 1943, Lucille married the love of her life, Len Mattice, sealed for time and eternity in the Mesa, Arizona Temple.
World War II interrupted their lives and Len was called into the service. At the time, Lucille was expecting their first child, Judy, who was born while Len was serving in London, England. Following Len’s return home from the war, their family grew with 5 daughters: Judy, Lenette, Kathy, Kerry and Gerry and 1 son: Warner Len.
Raising their children with a home full of love and nurturing and a sense of humor, Lucille focused on these attributes while Len was working on the Mattice farm.
Later in life, Lucille then pursued her love for her beautiful paintings enjoyed by many friends and family.
Following Len’s death in June 2001, Lucille met the challenges of widowhood for 15 years with grace and perseverance. Lucille loved her family dearly, and she was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.
Lucille was also a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and over the years served in many positions in the church, including The Relief Society Presidency and The Singing Mother’s, genealogy, playing the organ and piano for church services and funerals, and spent countless hours in service through her talent of crocheting baby quilts for those in need.
For a number of years, Lucille endured faithfully a battle with Dementia and uncertainties the last years of her life. She proved herself to be brave, with a frail body and a will of iron. She lived an exemplary life, and understood and endured well the trials and purpose of this life.
Lucille was an inspiration to her children and grandchildren, who now will remember the lessons of patience and adversity and the example that she taught.
Lucille’s life was grounded in faith, dignity, hard work and gratitude. She strengthened us with her prayers, blessed us with her love and encouraged us with her hope. The passing of our beloved mother will be missed by family and friends alike.
Services will be held at 11:00 am. Saturday, October 8, 2016 at the Pima Cemetery, Pima, AZ.
Star leaves behind: her five daughters, Judy Mattice, Lenette Hawkins (Dan), Kathy Stock (Leon), Kerry Hunt (John) and Gerry Price (Jim); her son, Warner Len (Rosemarie); twenty-two grandchildren and sixty great-grandchildren. Star was predeceased by: her husband, Len Warner Mattice in June of 2001.
Graveside services for Star will be conducted Saturday morning, October 8, 2016, at 11:00 a.m., at the Pima Cemetery by her grandson, Bishop Bret Hunt, of the Thatcher First Ward.
Online condolences may be offered at viningfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.
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