Katie Matthews

Katie Matthews, departed this life on July, 23, 2015.  She was born in Chipley, Florida to the late John W. McAllister Sr. and Arneat “Nettie” Frison.

She received a secondary education and moved to New York City early in her life. After living in New York City for over 40 years, she retired and moved back to Panama City, FL. where she passed.  For the majority of her years in New York City she was a nurse’s aide at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway, NY.  Her fondest recollections from her career were caring for the newborn infants.  During her stay at the nursing home, she would often reminisce about the infants entrusted in her care. 

Katie was known for her very independent spirit which allowed her to continue driving until the age of 92.  Her favorite pastimes were crocheting and collecting recipes.  You could also find her bustling in the kitchen baking her famous red rice and delicious cheesecakes to add to the fare at family gatherings.  She would also give these cheesecakes along with nut cakes, to her friends and pastor as gifts and treats. 

Katie was a faithful member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church of Panama City, FL.  Her favorite saying was, “I love my pastor, his singing, his teachings, and my church”. She also loved her primary care physician, Dr. Bruce Josten.

Preceding her in death were her father and mother, brothers:  Clarence, Lawrence, and Sylvester Gainer, Charles McAllister and sister, Tanya Yasmin McAllister—whom she named.

She leaves to mourn, her brothers: John (Janice) McAllister and Richard (Rose) McAllister; sister Terri McAllister; nieces: Tracey Gainer, Shonner Gainer, Arnell Gainer and Stormy McGuerty; nephews:  Kelmon Cheeseboro, Konan Lambert, Krys Wilfork, Taylor Gainer, Lonnie Gainer, Clarence Gainer, Herman Gainer, Jordan McAllister, Jonathan McAllister and Gavin Wilfork; devoted cousins: George (Alma) Vann, Gloria McAllister-Jones, George McAllister, Lamar McAllister, Tonsiaweda Hayes and Zaretha North.

Extended Family Members:  Angus McMillan, Darell (Lilah) McMillan and Jessie Champion.  Devoted friends:  Jennifer Early, Carolyn Quarrels, and Claudia Frances.

Katie lived a long, rich life.  May she “rest in peace” now and may she always be cherished by family and friends.

Beyond The Sunset (Should You Go First)

Should you go first and I remain to walk the road alone

I'll live in mem'ry's garden dear with happy days we've known

In spring I'll wait for roses red when fades the lilacs blue

And in early fall when brown leaves call I'll catch a glimpse of you

Should you go first and I remain for battles to be fought

Each thing you've touched along the way will be a hallowed spot

I'll hear your voice I'll see your smile though blindly I may grope

The mem'ry of your helping hand will buoy me on with hope

Beyond the sunset oh blissful morning when with our Saviour heaven is begun

Earth's toiling ended oh glorious dawning beyond the sunset when day is done.

Should you go first and I remain to finish with the scroll

No less than shadows shall ever creep in to make this life seem droll

We've known so much of happiness we've had our cup of joy

And memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy

I want to know each step you take that I may walk the same

For someday down that lonely road you'll hear me call your name

Should you go first and I remain one thing I'll have you do

Walk slowly down that long long path for soon I'll follow you

In that fair homeland we'll know no parting beyond the sunset for evermore.

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