Vivian Grace Peeples Mathis

“Have You Met My Mother?” Have you ever known a woman Who’s a friend to all she meets – One with a pleasant word For everyone she greets? Have you ever known a woman With a constant helping hand – One who thinks of others Just as God has planned? Have you ever known a woman Who’s lived a life of sacrifice – Who’s seen her duty, done it, While never thinking twice? Have you ever known a woman Who epitomizes “smart” – Yet is known across the land For the goodness of her heart? Have you ever known a woman The best of “country cooks” – Who likes to try new recipes But could have written the books? Have you ever known a woman Who raised a son without a dad – A son forever grateful For all the things he’s had? If you’ve met this woman, Whose love is like no other – I’m proud to say to you, My friend, you’ve met my Mother. The above poem, written by her son as a Mother’s Day gift, is a fitting tribute to Vivian Grace Peeples Mathis, 95, of Ravenel, who passed away on Monday, November 9, 2015 at Harvest Health and Rehab in Johns Island. Friends and family may call at Sauldam Baptist Church on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 from 6 o’clock until 8 o’clock PM. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2015 at 2 o’clock PM at Sauldam Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Vivian was born August 1, 1920, in a farmhouse in Dorchester County. She was the daughter of John Ashley Peeples and Mary Bivens Peeples. Vivian attended St. Paul’s High School. Vivian was a life-long member of Sauldam Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir, served for years as Church Hostess, and directed weddings. She was married to Carlton C. Mathis from 1944 until his passing in 1955 when she was left to raise their son, Johnny, on her own. She retired from production work at Manhattan Shirt Company and Levi-Strauss Shirt Factory. In later years, her greatest joy came from visits with “the babies” – her three great-grandchildren. Vivian is survived by her son, John Philip Mathis and his wife Linda Zealy Mathis of Wadmalaw Island, SC. Also, a grandson, Derek Justin Mathis, Sr. and his wife, Jennifer Quinn Mathis, of Mt. Pleasant, SC. Also, three great-grandchildren: Justin, Jessi, and Bowen Mathis. Vivian also leaves behind a niece, Matilda Morris, who faithfully carried her to Friday hair appointments, lunch, grocery shopping, and, generally, watched out for her welfare. Vivian is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews, whom she dearly loved. She was the last surviving sibling of nine brothers and sisters, and she was predeceased by a sister-in-law, whom she loved like a sister – Bertha Dyer of Macon, Ga. Memorials may be made to Sauldam Baptist Church, 5945 County Line Rd., Ravenel, SC 29470. A memorial message may be written to the family by visiting our website at www.jamesadyal.com ARRANGEMENTS BY JAMES A. DYAL FUNERAL HOME, 303 SOUTH MAIN STREET, SUMMERVILLE, SC 29483 (843)873-4040.

Vivian Grace Peeples Mathis

August 1, 1920 - November 9, 2015