Pearl M. Mattis

Pearl M. Mattis, 76, of Lafayette, NY died on Friday, June 27th, 2014, at Upstate University Hospital after a long and herculean battle with lung cancer. Pearl was a feisty wife, a loving and brutally honest sister, a mother who loved with infinite humble sacrifice, generosity, many hugs and kisses and an occasional stern rebuke. Her truest joy in life was her role as Babcie to her three grandchildren. Pearl is predeceased by her parents, Joseph J. and Marie A. Magdon. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Robert \"Bob\" Mattis Jr.; her daughter and biggest fan, Lynn Marie (Norman Jr.) Mingolelli; her son, David Davis (Carol Roberts); her sister, Barbara J. Magdon; her brother, John (Linda) Magdon; grandchildren, Matthew Davis, Jacqueline Davis and Norman Mingolelli III; and nephews, Kevin Magdon and Casey (Sarah) Magdon. Pearl was born in Olyphant, PA and upon graduation from Olyphant High School as valedictorian of her class, she moved to Syracuse, NY. She worked her entire life, beginning at age 16, holding bookkeeping positions with various employers, before beginning her 32 year career with the City of Syracuse, where she served under five mayors. Starting as a bookkeeper for the DPW and culminating with her promotion to a Purchase Analyst II in the Purchasing Department at City Hall, where her hard-nosed determination and knowledge of contract and commodity goods purchasing, saved the city millions of dollars over the span of her career. She was a true unsung and dedicated employee. Pearl loved to cook, always looking for new and interesting recipes acquired from the internet to prepare for her family and friends. Christmastime always meant the annual pierogi making marathon with her children, grandchildren and sister. Pearl was known for speaking her mind and was often found at the Lafayette Inn with Bob, doing just that. There is a cavernous void in the lives of those who she touched with her love, humor and unique outlook on life. Services will be held at 4:00 PM on Thursday July 3, 2014 at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, Inc., 2584 Field Lane, Lafayette, NY 13084. Calling hours are from 1 - 4 PM, Thursday, July 3, 2014 preceding the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to Wayward Paws, Inc., 3205 Bush Road, Jamesville, NY 13078.

Pearl M. Mattis

November 15, 1937 - June 27, 2014