Thursday, November 27, 2008

Helen Cleo Lumpkin Matlock

East Aurora, New York

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Helen Matlock, the center of gravity of our family for many years, passed away quietly this afternoon, in the presence of her children and their spouses, after a brief but intense illness, at the age of 85.

Helen was born on her family farm in Losantville, Indiana on June 4, 1923. She attended Purdue University, then Iowa State University, from which she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. After teaching high school Home Economics for a year, she married Corwin Young Matlock in 1946 and moved to Buffalo, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Matlock were married for 52 years before Mr. Matlock's death in 1998. The couple lived in Williamsville for fifty years and raised four children, including Ann Ludwig, Paul Matlock, Nancy Lucow, & Peter Matlock. Mrs. Matlock moved to East Aurora in 2000. Her last years were enriched through her special relationship with Larry Kimber, a fellow member of Orchard Park Friends Meeting, whom she married in 2006. A devoted mother and grandmother, Helen was the cherished and steady pillar of strength, common sense and wisdom for her extended family.

We are all saddened by her death, and will miss her immensely.

---
Here are some selected photos that I had on my laptop of Boppee. . . more to come.

Helen / Boppee

5 comments:

Papa D said...

Helen was a wonderful woman / sister / mother / grandmother / mother-in-law, and a model for all of us for how to lead a life full of love, understanding, tolerance, and hospitality. She led a quiet but remarkable life, affecting positively anyone who came within her influence. Her passing leaves a big void in our lives.

Jaimes8 said...

Erich -- Emily and I will keep you and your family in our thoughts...It's beautiful how you are honoring her here! Love, Jaime

iampotatoes said...

Such a fabulous women with a fabulous family with such a fabulous heart, much to celebrate when remembering and honoring her!

nina said...

Thanks for posting this, Erich.
The pictures are beautiful.
I love the ones of you and Boppee laughing.
Please give my love to Alli.
Thinking of you and hope to see you soon.
Love you-Nina

Subhash said...

I am sad to know that Helen Matlock is no longer with us. Helen was a very kind, loving, considerate, and genuine human being. She and Corwin not only loved their children but also extended their affection and hospitality to many international students who came from different regions of the world to study at the University of Buffalo. I was one of these students that were welcomed by Corwin and Helen at their house in Williamsville, New York in 1971 and since then I have been close to Helen and her family. She had a great passion for ethics and a great sense of humor. Even after I left Buffalo, I continued visiting the Matlock family and have remained in touch for the past 37 years. The last time I spoke to her was in the summer of 2008 and she asked me to visit her. I never thought that it would be our last meeting. It is the first time since 1971 that I did not get a New Year’s card from Helen with details of her family. Helen, you made me feel home away from my home. And I will always miss the Matlock affection and hospitality that I received. You have touched many lives with your kindness.