Obituaries

Chespeake-Mattie Virginia Bryant was called to her heavenly home on March 4, 2024. She was one of eight children born to the late Benjamin and Allean McClees.

Mattie was educated in the Norfolk Public Schools system and was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School.

Mattie was employed by JCPenny as a Stockroom Clerk and retired after 30 years of service. She was a devoted life long member of St. Mark U.C.C. and also raised her own children and grandchildren in St. Mark. For over 30 years, Mattie served as the youth sponsor. During this time she assisted in coordinating Easter and Christmas programs, chaperoned and attended United Black Christian conferences, serving in the weekly Soup Kitchen and participating in sewing classes.

Mattie enjoyed spending time with family, cooking,crossword puzzles, traveling to festivals and cruising the seven seas!

She leaves to cherish her daughters, Larita Gilchrist(John Jr.) and Merlene Arrington; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held Noon Monday; March 11, 2023 at St, Mark UCC; Norfolk, VA. Her remains will be placed in church 1 hour prior to service. Burial will be in Roosevelt Memorial Park; Chesapeake, VA. Viewing will also be 2-4pm Sunday; March 10, 2024 at Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services; 1146 Rodgers Street; Chesapeake, VA 23324.