Mattie Bell

Benjamin

It is with love & fervent prayers that the Staff and Management of Cooper Funeral Home, announces the earthly transition of Mrs. Mattie Bell (Russell) Benjamin, of Chipley, Florida, on November 30, 2023 in the comfort of her home surrounded by her family.  She was 74 years old and a native of Jackson County, Florida.

Mattie was blessed with the breath of life on July 18, 1949 to the parentage of Samuel Russell and Vera Mae White in Graceville, Florida.  Being reared in a Christian home, she accepted Christ as her personal Savior and would become a member of the New Easter Missionary Baptist Church of Graceville, Florida.

One of the happiest moments in her life was on September 4, 1971, when she was united in Holy Matrimony to Carl Marvin Benjamin and to this union one son was born.

Mattie embodied a quiet and beautiful spirit that she passed down to her son, granddaughters, and nieces/nephews.  She truly loved spending quality time with her husband, son , granddaughters, and extended family.  Mattie had a love for the Lord and loved to sing praises, even joining the church choir.  She also loved to fish, do crossword puzzles, reading novels, and cooking/baking.  She would often treat the family with her special holiday "Lane Cake".  Mattie was a precious jewel that will be missed and cherished by all.

Those left to cherish and remember the beautiful legacy include her loving husband of 52 years: Carl Marvin Benjamin, Sr.; a devoted son: Carl Marvin Benjamin, Jr., both of Chipley, Florida; two granddaughters: Avayah Benjamin and Amayah Benjamin; sister: Annie Mae Montgomery of Graceville, Florida; brother-in-law: Charles (Katina) Benjamin of Tampa, Florida; sisters-in-law: Kathy Nell Benjamin Davenport of Marianna, Florida and Alma Louise Tope of Detroit, Michigan; two maternal nephews: Christopher Gainer and Dallas Johnson; along with a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins,  and friends.

"Away"  - James Whitcomb Riley

I cannot say and I will not say
That she is dead, she is just away.

With a cheery smile and a wave of hand
She has wandered into an unknown land;
And left us dreaming how very fair
Its needs must be, since she lingers there.

And you-oh you, who the wildest yearn
From the old-time step and the glad return-

Think of her faring on, as dear
In the love of there, as the love of here
Think of her still the same way, I say;
She is not dead, she is just away.