Irene Turkett Mattox of Winnsboro passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
Born in Columbia on April 21, 1940, Irene was the daughter of Turner W. Turkett, Jr. and Mable T. Turkett of Winnsboro. Irene graduated from Jenkinsville High School in 1958 and attended Anderson College. Irene married her High School sweetheart, George Mattox on June 26, 1959. They made their home in Winnsboro and Irene began her career at Phillips Granite Company where she worked until 1989, which provided the perfect schedule for raising a family. At the time of empty nesting, Irene began a new career in state government with the South Carolina Forestry Commission in the fall of 1989 and finished up her career at the South Carolina Retirement System.
Irene was devoted to her family always the biggest encourager and supporter of her children and grandchildren’s activities, whether it was traveling to horse shows or ball games you could count on her being there. Irene loved farm life, animals, and gardening. Oh the vegetables she would grow, always canning and freezing to prepare for the winter months being sure to have extra to give to friends and neighbors. She had such a big heart and always went above and beyond to do special things for others. She was famous for her pound cakes, homemade sour dough bread, and vegetable soup.
Irene is survived by four children: Laura M. Collins (Deanie), George Herman Mattox Jr. (Teresita), Elizabeth M. Mann (David), Susan M. Douglas (Scott); four grandchildren: Alex Douglas (Magan), Torri M. Langley (Preston), Jessice D. Garrett (Brendan), Catherine Mann; two great grandchildren: Liam Douglas, Waylon Douglas; a brother, Willie T. Turkett; and a sister, Sarah T. Sexton (Steve). Irene is predeceased by her husband George H. Mattox, a brother Turner W. Turkett, III., and her beloved fur babies Heidi and Coco. Special thanks to Audrey Miles, Polly Phillips, and especially Lisa Achkar for her unwavering care.
Services were held Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Fairfield Baptist Church. Memorials can be made to the charity of one’s choice.
McSwain-Evans Funeral Home, Newberry, SC. www.mcswainevans.com
