MATZ, Mary

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Sunday, January 14, 2007 Granny was born in Odell Ill. on April 12,1919, to Alta and Roma Griner, who primarily share cropped for a living. When asked about the Great Depression, she would look puzzled and say, "I don't remember the Depression - we were so poor, it didn't matter." She married John "Francis" Matz on May 28, 1938, after eloping to Indianapolis, Ind., which proved to be the beginning of a 48 year marriage. She was a farmer's wife by trade and told great stories of "life on the farm." We will always have a visual of chickens running around with their heads cut off. Francis and Mary sold their farm in Bartholomew County, Ind., in 1949 and moved with their daughters Bonnie and Carolyn to Arizona. Mary enjoyed train and boat rides, crocheting, sewing, family get-togethers, biscuits and gravy, and making homemade bread. She will long be remembered for her chicken and noodles, afghans, home made ice cream, and snacks of bread, butter and sugar. Granny passed away at home the evening of Jan. 9, 2007, surrounded by family. At 87 years, she was preceded in death by husband, Francis; grandson, Troy; and sons-in-law Larry and Duke. Those who will continue to live on with what she has taught us include daughters Bonnie and Carolyn; grandchildren John, Stacy (Jack), and Corrine; great-granddaughters Caitlin Mary, Savannah, Courtney, and Brittany; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was the best Mom, Grandma and Great Grandma in the world. Viewing will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18, at Hampton Funeral Home, with a Rosary following. Mass will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 19, at Sacred Heart Church, with burial in Phoenix that afternoon. Memorial contributions maybe made to YRMC Hospice, 3262 N. Windsong Dr., Prescott Valley, Ariz., 86314. Arrangements were entrusted to Hampton Funeral Home. Information provided by survivors.