Joe Franklin Mattison

SPARTANBURG, SC- Joe Franklin Mattison, 88, passed away Thursday, Sept. 23, at his home. Born September 3, 1933, Joe recently celebrated his birthday surrounded by his family. He grew up in Belton, SC, lived in several places across SC & NC, and settled in Spartanburg over 50 years ago. He was predeceased by his parents Vance Preston and Everlee Herlong Mattison and his brother James (Dorothy). He is survived by his wife Margaret of over 63 years; his children, Van (Karen Reynolds), Keith (Donza Hyman) and Alicia; grandchildren, Kimberly Simmons (Adam), Scott (Ashley), Emily and Rebecca; great grandchildren, Kaylee, Layla, and Nathan. Also, he is survived by his sister-in-law Dorothy Matthews (Frank), his nieces, Elizabeth Feeney Smith (Robert), Linda Fessler (Steve) and his nephew Benson (Gaile). Joe was a proud 1955 graduate of Clemson A&M College and earned his masters from Institute of Textile Technology in Charlottesville, VA. He served as a lieutenant in the Army Quartermaster Corps. He started his textile career at American Thread. In 1963, he joined Milliken & Co., where he retired in 1999. He was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg, where he served as a deacon and elder. Joe actively volunteered in service to others throughout his life. Most recently, he helped build houses for Habitat for Humanity and volunteered at Habitat’s Restore. He was a loving husband, dad and friend. He was always willing to share his knowledge, humor and kindness. He will be missed and cherished for all of his wonderful acts of kindness and the love he shared throughout his lifetime. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 28, 2021, 2:00PM at First Presbyterian Church, 393 East Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302, with a private committal service. Masks and social distancing are required. The service will also be available online at http://www.fpcspartanburg.org/worship. Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg, 2270 South Pine Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302; Mobile Meals, Inc. PO Box 461, Spartanburg SC 29304 or First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg, 393 East Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302.