Garnette Matthews Vickers, 101 years-old, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 24, 2016 at the home of her son in Alkol, West Virginia. Her last day on earth was spent in the presence of family as all gathered near to be with her. Known by “Granny” to so many, she will be mourned by all who loved her. She is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Samuel Hal Vickers, whom she has missed deeply, and her step-son Harry Hal Vickers.
Garnette was born on February 26, 1915 to John Harvey and Blanch Young Matthews in Lincoln County, West Virginia. She is preceded in death by three of her siblings, Mary Virginia Perdue Roberts, John Andrew Matthews, and Samuel Bryant Matthews. She graduated from Duval High School in 1936.
Garnette’s gentleness of spirit and strong faith was a testament to the love of her Lord and Savior. Garnette served over 40 years as church clerk and Sunday school teacher at Sycamore Grove Baptist Church through which she touched countless lives. She never failed to ask, “Did you go to church this morning?” when talking to her on a Sunday. Upon her death, Garnett was a member of Morrisville Baptist Church.
Her signature gift of joy and contentment shown through her laughter and hugs will never be forgotten. When Paul wrote “godliness with contentment is great gain” he could have been speaking directly of Garnette. She was happy with the simple joys and you rarely left her presence without a hug, a kiss, and a “I love you”. Garnette’s hands were rarely still. An avid quilter, she quilted every day except Sundays. Her tiny stitches and beautiful quilts will continue to warm the hearts of her loved ones now that she is gone.
Independent, and a wee bit stubborn, Garnette lived alone until 6 weeks ago. This was made possible by Margaret’s good cooking, Monica’s devotion to her Granny, and Kenny’s proximity and care. Home meant everything to Garnette.
Garnette is survived by her sister, Wynoka Matthews Kelley; her children Kenneth Vickers and wife Margaret, Jack Vickers and wife Ruth, and Kathleen Vickers Wadsworth and husband Jim; her grandchildren Jeff Vickers, Monica Linville, James Vickers, Renee Ryan, Michele Ferri, Katrina Reese, Vic Wadsworth, Felicia Christensen; 12 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great grandchildren; numerous nephews and nieces, including Elnorah Rivers. All of these she loved and touched deeply. Please join us in celebrating her life Wednesday evening 6 – 8 pm for visitation and Thursday morning at 11am for funeral services at Curry Funeral Home in Alum Creek. Burial at Stone Cemetery in Alkol West Virginia immediately following Thursday morning services.
Curry Funeral Home, 2097 Childress Road, Alum Creek, WV has been family owned and operated since 1950.
