Mrs. Mattlyn Gilyard Henley was born in Adel, GA on October 2, 1934 to the late Joseph and Virginia Gilyard. She was educated in the Cook County School system. She worked in the Culinary System of Cook County for many years. She joined Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church at a very young age.
After relocating to Quitman, GA, she joined Beulah Missionary Baptist Church and was a member of the senior choir. She was a loyal and devoted member for many years. Later she joined Global Christian Church where she become the Mother of the church.
Mrs. Henley attended a Senior Nurse Aide Training program and graduated with a certificate of completion.
She was a lifetime member of OES Eastern Star Pansy Chapter #119 in Adel, GA
Mattlyn was the sister to seven siblings. Six of them departed before her; Joseph Gilyard, Josephine Washington, Queen Robinson, Doris Scott, Bill Gilyard, and Virginia Scott.
She met and married the late Mr. Alfred Henley in 1951. This union produced nine children. One preceded her to Glory; Sandra D. Riley.
Mother Mattlyn Gilyard Henley leaves to cherish her memories forever; Leroy Henley of Dallas, GA, Selena (Frank) Bryant, Almetta (Rev Dr. Alvin) Bunch of Columbus, GA, Deacon Michael Henley of Valdosta, GA, Vera (Ronald) Causey of Mableton, GA, Sarahphina Linton of Valdosta, GA, Ronnie (Tonya) Henley of Valdosta, GA, Bonnie Henley of Valdosta, GA; sixteen grandchildren, Lisa Warren, Carnegee Simmons, Stacy (Elvernie) McGhee, Tanya (Diron) Harris, Adalia Harrell, Frank (Shonda) Bryant Jr., Monica Henley (deceased), Levert (Renika) Zackery, April Hunter, Chelsea Linton, Ronald Causey III, Andria (Troy) Brown, Shakeela Linton, LaRhonda (Ash) Shields, Damarcus (Amanda) Henley, & Deslyn Bunch; thirty-six great grands; five great-great grands; one brother, Henry Calvin (Julia) Gilyard of Premberton, NJ; a host of several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends; also daughters of Mr. Eddie "AD" Williams whom she loved like her own children; and one extra special friend, Jacqueline Harper.
Visitation will be Friday, August 23, 2024 at the Stevens-McGhee chapel from 4PM-7PM.
A celebration of life will be Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 10AM at Beulah MB Church with Dr. Dewayne Gavin, officiating. Burial will follow in North End Cemetery. Visit this website or our Stevens-McGhee Funeral Home Facebook page to view a livestream of the celebration.
Continue to pray along with the Henley Family during this time.
Vickey Wansley sent Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum for Mrs. Mattlyn Henley - August 23, 2024
Please accept our condolences, sympathy, and prayers for your loss. May God's comfort bring peace and strength to you and the family. Jay & Vickey Wansley
To the entire Henley and Selena Bryant Family. Sending condolences and prayers of love❤️, strength, and healing in your time of need. I just remember, Mother Henley and her daughter being escorted by her awesome daughter/Caretaker( Mrs. Selena Bryant) voting in-person during voting season. You will definitely, be missed as you was so graciously loved❤️by all who knew you. May you rest in peace and paradise.
The Henley's were a staple at Beulah Missionary Baptist Church planted firmly in the congregation by their matriarch, Mrs. "Matt" Henley. I often reminisce on her singing; a unique voice placed somewhere between alto and contralto carrying a note of a familiar old spirit who lived to tell her story through song. To the family I give condolences and prayers. Claim peace by knowing she's singing with the angels, taking her rightful place. - Delayne Stephens Raiford 💕
Praying for my sister Lisa Warren and her family. I am so sorry for your loss. May GOD give you all strength during this difficult time. Love You, Kim Scharg
Praying for Sis. Tonya Harris and her family. Asking God to comfort strengthen during this difficult time.
Bishop R. & Lady T. Benjamin & LCFC Family ❤️
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
Preserve and share memories of your loved one by creating a Forever Missed online memorial. More at Forever Missed