Mattie Ockleberry

Mattie Lee Mannings Ockleberry was born December 30, 1940 to the parentage of Willie Manning and Epsie Crittendon Manning in Emerson, Arkansas. She accepted Christ at an early age at New Hope Baptist Church pastored by Rev. Harper.

As a child growing up, Mattie was assertive, courageous and never afraid to ask for or do what she wanted to do.  Although frank and candid in her expression, she never failed to encourage and support her siblings. As a teenager, she enjoyed sewing and singing.  She had a beautiful voice and sang at various churches.

When Mattie left Arkansas, she moved to Dallas, TX. She met and married Otto Ockleberry Sr. They remained married until his death.  To this union were born Otto Jr., Jacqueline, and Cynthia.  Mattie took great pride in caring for her family.

She was an employee at Parkland Hospital for over 42 years. She served in many capacities within the Newborn Nursery. She was recognized on numerous occasions as employee of the quarter. In 1992, she was recognized as employee of the year. After she retired, she attended Southern Bible Institute. She graduated summa cum laude with a diploma in Biblical Studies in 2014.

Mattie had a zest and zeal for life. She was always open for new adventures. She enjoyed catering, decorating, gardening, travelling, singing, speaking, and spending time with family.

At the time of her death, she had been a member of Canaan Baptist Church for over 50 years.  She was an active member of the choir, taught Sunday School and Mission, and participated in City-Wide Mission.  She served under the leadership of her pastor Reverend Dr. Jarvis D. Baker.  She was just as committed to her church as she was to her family.

She is preceded in death by her husband Otto Ockleberry Sr., parents Willie and Epsie Manning, sister Margie Ree Hicks, brother James Edward Manning, and stepdaughter Alice Marie Richardson.

Mattie departed this life on September 30, 2019. She leaves to cherish her memory: son, Otto Ockleberry Jr., daughters, Jacqueline Ockleberry and Cynthia Ockleberry, stepsons, Theron Harris and Sammy Ockleberry, brothers, Fred Manning, Clarence Manning (Ruby), and Larry Manning, sisters, Veola Henderson, Bertha Carter, Wille Baker, Beverly Benjamin (Roy), Lois  Lindsey, Sharon White (Hardy); Aunt Eula B. Hildreth and a host of nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces and friends.