Mattie B. Waters

Mattie B. Waters was born on November 29, 1945, in Richmond, Virginia. She was one of five children born to Robert Baskins and Margaret Johnson. After the passing of her mother, she moved to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where she and her siblings were raised by their father, Robert Baskins Sr., and their stepmother, Janie Baskins.

Ms. Mattie received her formal education at William Penn High School, graduating in 1964. She gave birth to her first child that summer. Despite her circumstances, she was a strong and dedicated mother, always ensuring she could provide for and protect her children. Throughout her life, Ms. Mattie worked various jobs, including as a nurse aide, in assembly work, and as a cafeteria aide. She was most passionate about being a nurse aide, finding the work hard yet rewarding. Her dedication to service was evident in all her roles, as she put her heart and soul into her work.

She concluded her career working for Steelton-Highspire High School and Elementary School as a cafeteria aide to be close to her grandchildren. Known affectionately as Nana by the children, she always went the extra mile, even providing additional treats to her grandchildren's friends. Her love language was feeding people.

In her younger days, Ms. Mattie enjoyed swimming, bowling, skating, and partying with her sisters. Known for her big heart and honest nature, she brought light, laughter, and love wherever she went. Even during her health appointments, she had nurses and doctors laughing. She was truly cherished by those who knew her best.

On June 10, 2024, Mattie B. Waters made her heavenly transition in a room filled with both her children and her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Lee Baskins; her mother, Margaret Johnson; her stepmother, Janie Baskins; and her two brothers, Robert and Henry Baskins.

Her life will be celebrated by her sisters, Elizabeth Stevens and Grace Bryant (Henry Bryant); her children, Maurice Baskins Sr. (Sonya Tripp Baskins) and Charisse Grayer (Julius Grayer); her grandchildren, Maurice Baskins (Rosaly Baskins), Shanice Buxton (Robert Buxton), Marcus Baskins (Kristen Baskins), Jaron Grayer, and Maleisha Baskins; and her great-grandchildren, Nevaeh Baskins, Jeremiah Baskins, Zahir Baskins, Jacques Madera, Bella Buxton, Mya Buxton, Sir Robert Buxton, Quincy Baskins, and Kaylani Baskins. She is also survived by her nieces, Valerie, Ja’net, JoNae’, Amber, Nicole, Ella and Regina; her nephews, Corey, Mordecai, Casey, and Brian; and a host of other family and friends.