Clara Mae Matthews

Clara Mae Tillotson Matthews, age 91, of Henderson died peacefully on Sunday August 10, 2025 at the home of her daughter in Roxboro where she had resided during her illness. Born in Granville County on September 24, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Charlie Sanford Tillotson, Sr., and the late Irene Thornton Elliott.

In addition to her parents, Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Faucette Matthews, Sr.; and her siblings and their spouses: Charlie Sanford "C.S." Tillotson, Jr. (Etta Jane); Jack Allen Tillotson (Betty); William Chesley Tillotson (Virginia); Clyde Thomas Tillotson; Donna Marie Tillotson (Celestine); and Ruby Lee Tillotson Smith (Roy). She was also preceded in death by two children: her daughter, Deborah Ann Matthews Baucom, and her son, Thomas Faucette Matthews, Jr.

Clara held many jobs during her life, but she worked longest at Laurens Glass Co./Ball-InCon where she was employed for 32 years. When she retired, she was an assistant foreman.

She was a member of Bullock Baptist Church. Clara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great- grandmother. An accomplished seamstress, she made sure her daughters had fashionable outfits complete with matching accessories. She loved family visits, and when the great grands came, they always received a "gift" from Great Granny. Her passion was reading; she usually read a book a day.

Surviving are two daughters, Becky Irene Matthews of the home and Sarah Matthews Morrow of Roxboro, a brother Douglas McArthur Tillotson (Shirley), a sister-in-law Margaret Perkins, grandchildren Jem Morgan Morrow (Cortney), Bret Thomas Morrow (Carley), great-grandchildren Max, Ivy, Jack, and Conrad Morrow. A number of nieces and nephews also survive.

Family and friends are invited to Brooks & White Funeral Home, 907 Durham Road, Roxboro, NC on Friday August 15, 2025 to honor Clara's life. Visitation will be from 2:00-2:30PM, with the service beginning at 2:30PM. Graveside services will follow at approximately 4:30PM, at Sunset Gardens, 1374 US-158 Bus., Henderson, NC.

Flowers are welcome. Anyone who wishes a suggestion for a charitable donation in Clara's memory may send contributions to Amedisys Hospice, 3320 US 1 Highway #B, Franklinton, NC 27525.

The family extends special thanks to Bonnie Carver and Donald Farmer.