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- MATTINSON, Rhetta Sarah
The Chronicle Herald, Halifax, January 9, 2016
(July 18, 1920 - January 8, 2016)
Rhetta Sarah Mattinson, (nee Avery), 95, died on January 8, 2016 in the Halifax Infirmary surrounded by her large and loving family. Born in Grate's Cove, Newfoundland, on July 18, 1920, she was daughter of the late William and Elsa Avery. Age may conquer many people's spirit, but not so with Rhetta, who was never caught without her lipstick, jewellery and quick wit. At the tender age of 17 she left home to attend Business College in St. John's. During a blackout she met a handsome and determined young man named Donald Mattinson. Disregarding her father's advice not to date a sailor she subsequently married him resulting in a legendary loving partnership, producing 6 children, 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. In addition Rhetta's big heart opened her home to many chosen children.
Family wasn't Rhetta's only passion. She loved music and was an accomplished member of Dartmouth Choral Society. She actively volunteered in her community including charter member of Sackville Lioness Club, working on the Chamber of Commerce, Home and School, Housing Commission. Politics was another passion- A tireless supporter of the Liberal Party, she was the first female president of the local Liberal Association and an organizer of the Young Liberals. As a card carrying member of both Provincial and Federal parties, she personally met all the recent Liberal prime ministers and even babysat Justin Trudeau and his brothers when his father was visiting Halifax.
Rhetta will be remembered for many things, her support of people in need, her ability to bring laughter to almost every interaction, her flair for style, her sense of "timing", and her philosophy that there is always room for one more. Quoting one of her grandchildren, she was the glue that held the family together. Rhetta was dearly loved by her extended family and those who knew her felt fortunate. She was predeceased by her husband Donald, daughter Kathryn Beauchamp, son-in-law Greg Dill, daughter-in-law Beth Hamilton, grandson Michael, sisters Phyllis Strong and Sylvia Avery, brothers Ralph, Roy and Benjamin. Left to mourn are sons Avery and Harry (Debbie), daughters Donna Dill, Gillean, Lauren (Wendell) Williams, sister-in-law Betty (Ralph) Avery, son-in-law Donald Beauchamp; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be 6-8 on Monday January 11, 1-2 on Tuesday January 12, followed by funeral service at 2, at Atlantic Funeral Home, 125 Sackville Drive. Burial in Oakridge Memory Gardens. Reception in the Sackville Lion's Hall, 101 Old Beaverbank Road. Donations in Rhetta's memory may be made to the Arthritis Society, or a charity of one's choice. Online condolences may be made by visiting the website www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com and selecting the Sackville Chapel. Heartfelt thank-yous to the staff of Bedford Berkeley where she lived for 3 years and also to the staff of 8.2 at Halifax Infirmary and the Closing the Gap Home Care team. At Rhetta's request, please wear bright colours.
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1920 - 2016 (95 years)
