Mattie Lee Whalen was born in Sumner, Mississippi on March 13, 1949.  She was raised by her mother, Mary Holmes and father, Ander Lee Holmes.

Mattie loved her time and life in Mississippi but decided she wanted something new and different for her family.  Mattie and her life partner, Nathaniel Davis, moved to East St. Louis, Illinois on January 3, 1970.

Mattie worked very hard all her life to provide a loving and caring home for her family.  She also cared for and took in other people's family and children.  Mattie and her life partner, Nathaniel raised six children together.

Mattie was a funny, smart, brave, loving, strong and loyal person.

Mattie was a beacon of light to all that met her.  Her light shined bright in life and we are sure it will shine just as bright in Heaven.

Mattie departed this life on September 29, 2019 at Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri.  She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Holmes; father, Ander Lee Holmes and grandson, Jarrell Fountain.

Mattie leaves to cherish her memories sons, Sammy Fountain and Dewarren Fountain; daughters, Timmeka Amerson, Shanita Whalen, Paramonica Davis and Pamela Davis; twenty three grandchildren and twenty six great grandchildren and a host of family and friends.