We announce the peaceful passing of Mattie Frances Haliburton on May 25, 2026, at the age of 88, with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived. Born on June 5, 1937, in Camilla, Georgia, Mattie lived with grace, resilience, and a steadfast devotion to caring for others.

Mattie was the cherished daughter of Tobie and Mamie Davis, who taught her the kindness and strength she carried throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved siblings— Oliva, Alma, Eva Mae, Mamie, Ann, Geraldine, Charles, William, Willie, Tobie, Lamar, and Ernest.

Her life was curated with love and intention. Most of her training was from her mother and father. She learned to create from her mother and her business savviness from her father. Her mom was a seamstress. She would often assist her mom in picking out patterns and making clothing. Mattie watched her mother and assisted her in creating wardrobes and assisting with her mother’s clientele, consisting of schoolteachers, ministers’ wives, and various prominent members of the community.

Mattie’s talents developed at an early age. At the young age of ten, she was a promising seamstress, making her first dress. These talents had continued to flourish as she has developed, allowing her to graduate from Camilla Consolidated High School and reflecting her commitment to education and empowerment.

She built a distinguished career in finance and retail. She then flourished as an entrepreneur, owning Advance Studios of Interior. She was a proud member of the National Association of Professional & Executive Women and Dun & Bradstreet.

Her excellence spoke so loudly that in 2008 she was invited to the White House by First Lady Laura Bush after being named a “Woman of Excellence” by the National Association of Professional & Executive Women.

But her journey was not without obstacles. Customers often assumed she was “the maid,” or that her white drapery installer was the boss. Some refused to speak to her at all. Yet she persevered — breaking glass ceilings with quiet confidence. When her installer corrected a customer by saying, “She is the boss,” it only confirmed what her work had already proven.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mattie found joy in bringing family and friends together. Her table, and especially her cooking, created moments of connection and celebration. With deep empathy and insight, she encouraged and uplifted other women, reflecting the compassion that defined her life.

On August 17, 1957, Mattie married James Haliburton, the love of her life. Their 68-year marriage reflected enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a family that includes 5 biological children, 1 Bonus Child, 2 Chosen Children, 10 Grandchildren, and 7 Great-Grandchildren, who will all carry forward the love and wisdom she shared.

Mattie leaves a legacy of resilience, confidence, and kindness. She met life’s challenges with grace and strength, inspiring all who knew her. Her compassionate heart touched countless lives and left a lasting impression on her community and loved ones.

As we say goodbye to Mattie Frances Haliburton, we do so with deep sorrow and gratitude for the time we shared with her. Her spirit will remain a guiding light of love, strength, and compassion in our hearts.

May she rest in peace, forever surrounded by the love she so freely gave.

She is survived by her husband, James L. Haliburton, her children, Ava Jackson (Bonus Child), Quinetta (Ronald) Massey, Toyia Haliburton, Tobias (Samanthia) Haliburton, Gerrie Haliburton-Eason, James Haliburton, and Sonitra Haliburton. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Two surviving sisters: Wilma Redden and Ruby Halliburton-Lloyd, a host of nieces and nephews, a sister-in-law, Sharon Davis, a goddaughter, Jackie Willis, and her dearest friend, Mildred Grays. All with whom she shared many treasured memories, laughter, and love.