Mattie Frances Roane
May 29, 1924 – August 18, 2020
Mattie F. Roane, 96, of Mechanicsville passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2020.
Mattie Frances Roane was born in Historic Jackson Ward in Richmond, VA. She was the first Miss Walker at Maggie Walker High School here in Richmond. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in 2.5 years at Virginia Union University. When the University of Virginia would not allow her to attend their graduate school because of her race, the state of Virginia paid for her to attend Columbia University in New York, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Psychology. In her 30 years with Richmond Public Schools, she taught at Nathaniel Bacon Elementary, Bowler Elementary, and A.V. Norrell Elementary Schools, and served as a Curriculum Specialist. She was active in the community as a member of First African Baptist Church, as a Girl Scout leader, and as a very involved member of the League of Women Voters. She also owned her own dressmaking shop.
Survivors include nephew Vincent Roane (Margaret), niece Sheila Kate Roane, sister-in-law Lucille Roane, great-nephews George Ashton (Monique), Randolph Ashton (Lydia), Joseph Roane (Shannon), great-great-nephews Andrew and Conrad Ashton, great-great nieces Sydney and Jordan Ashton, and a host of relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, William Henry Roane and Katherine Johnson Roane, her brothers William Henry Roane, Jr., and Norman Wesley Roane (Lillye), and her niece Andrea Victoria Roane.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 pm with a memorial service to follow at 3pm Saturday, August 22 at Affinity Funeral Service – Mechanicsville Chapel, 8074 Mechanicsville Tnpk, Mechanicsville, VA 23111. Interment will be private.
Memorials may be made to the League of Women Voters or the Democratic Party.
Click here to join the live stream Celebration of Life for Mattie F. Roane.
Mattie was a wonderful person. I enjoyed getting to know her at the Hermitage-Richmond. I was always impressed with how she cared for others. I know that they will miss her sweet spirit at the Hermitage. May God be with you. Mary Sue Swann, former team member.
I will always remember my Aunt Mattie as the firm but loving great-aunt with high expectations for her nephews. Her smile, laugh, and love will be missed. Rest in peace Auntie.
I had the pleasure of taking care of Miss Mattie
I had the pleasure of taking care of Miss Mattie at the Hermitage Richmond. She was such a king loving and very appreciative person. She told me of her educational journey, about her dress shop and her no nonsense attitude. She was the bright spot to my day. She always talked about her parents and brothers and her dress shop. I will miss my Mattie Matt ad I affectionately called her. Rest well Queen. Much love
Mattie Roane served Richmond Public Schools faithfully and without hesitation even after her retirement. Specifically, at A.V. Norrell Elementary she answered the call whenever the children and teachers needed help. We breathed a sigh of relief when our counselor, Ms. Rasberry, would tell us, “Ms. Roane will be here tomorrow to assist,” for we knew her involvement meant order, courtesy, and efficiency.
It was a pleasure to work with Ms. Roane and her friends. – especially her nephew, Vincent Roane, another family member who also taught me a lot. Thank you!
On behalf of the faculty and staff of A. V. Norrell Elementary School, I extend our gratitude for a life full of service to others.
Grace and peace,
Mary P. Pierce
Retired Principal of A. V. Norrell Elementary
Ms. Pierce: I’m writing a piece about Ms. Roane for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Would you please contact me? Thank you. — Bill Lohmann
My email address is [email protected]
Vincent, I heard my mother talk about Mattie Frances over the years as I was growing up. She talked about the summers she spent with Mattie and her mother when they were children. They were related as cousins. My mother lived with me the last five years of her life and during that time she and Mattie Frances reconnected. It was then that I met her and she came to a birthday party for my mother at my house. I visited her several times after she moved to the Hermitage. However I stopped my visits because I was always coming when she was involved with an activity that I didn’t want to interrupt.
My sincere sympathy to you and Margaret and thank you for all the care you gave Mattie. She cared deeply for you.
We extend our deepest sympathy to you , Vincent and your family at the passing of your aunt, Mattie. She was a dear friend to my parents and one of my teachers. May your fond memories comfort you at this time.
Sincerely,
The Hendersons – Joyce, Cheyenne, and Chuck
I met Maddie when my mother was in the Hermitage with her several years ago. My Mom had severe dementia and Maddie was so wonderful with her. She would let Mom sit and hold her hand for hours on end. My Mom couldn’t communicate well but she instantly knew she loved Maddie. My sister and I love talking to Maddie. May she rest in peace. My prayers are with all her loved ones.
Just heard about Maddie. She and my mom shared wonderful times in their room at the Hermitage. She was such a nice lady. May she Rest In Peace. Sending my prayers to you.
Tweedie. Family