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Madlyn ‘Mattie’ Carrol Kearnes, 81, cherished wife, mother, aunt, and friend, passed away on April 28, 2024, in El Paso, Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents Kenneth Hill and Minnie Gertrude Hill, sister Alvena Anne Buxton, grandson Lance Alton Pugh, and great-granddaughter Madlyn Cora Reese Camp. Mattie is survived by Martin Kearnes, her loving husband of 47 years; and daughters, Valerie Jean (Ron) Pugh, Sharon Ann Rhoades, and Linda Russell (Tom) Kruse. Grandchildren Armando Cochise (Megan) Rodriguez, Jessica Carol (Kevin) Striplin, Sheri Jean (Jim) Watkins, Justin Blaine (Jazmin) Pugh; and nephew Charles Leroy Buxton. She leaves behind 9 great-grandchildren and numerous extended family and friends to honor and cherish her memory.
After being a stay-at-home mom, Mattie entered the working world and managed several large apartment complexes in northeast El Paso. From there she transitioned into the insurance field, working at State Farm for over 30 years, 25 of those with the State Farm George Drake Agency.
Mattie loved her family and was very proud of her girls, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They all learned the meaning of hard work and giving back by her example. Some of her happiest times were driving around with her grandsons listening to all kinds of music and watching Saints football games.
No matter which job she had, everyone was always greeted with her beautiful smile and soft voice. She went the extra mile to help anyone in need and could be counted on to be there with just a phone call.
Mattie leaves a large void in her family; she was very loved and will be deeply missed. Mattie’s warmth and kindness will be remembered by all who knew her. Until we meet again “We love you, a bushel and a peck, and a hug around your neck.”
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