Breckenridge Texan

Mattie Vernelle Blair, 90, of Breckenridge, passed from this life on February 13, 2020, in Abilene. Funeral services will be 3 p.m., February 19, 2020, at Bethany Baptist Church with Don Bearden officiating the service. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the Bethany Baptist sanctuary. Interment to follow service at the Woodson Cemetery under the direction of Melton Kitchens Funeral Home.

Mattie Vernelle Sullivan was born in the family farm house on March 7, 1929, in Woodson to George and Elizabeth Sullivan. She went to school until the 10th grade before going to work to help the family. In that part of the country, that was expected of a large family that lived in the country. She married her sweetheart that she knew since she was 9 years old, James S. Blair, on February 17, 1946. They were married 53 years until his passing. They raised their family in and around West Texas, until relocating to Breckenridge in 1965. The family unit meant everything to Vernelle, as a homemaker, she took that responsibility extremely serious. Anyone that crossed her path knew her children and grandchildren were the center of her life. Whether it was for a brief visit or spend the night at her home, she always made sure you ate well. Everyone always wanted to spend the night while in town at her home. If beds were all taken, the grandchildren would be made special pallets in the floor. Her loved ones were always woke with the aroma of a good country breakfast being fixed in Vernelles kitchen. No matter how picky their eating preferences might be, she would always accommodate their wishes. The family noted that Vernelle was their rock. She always took time for her family to listen if they needed something and give good advice. Even though, she raised her children for many years by herself, she never had a bad attitude or lost a sense of humor. Vernelle is preceded in death by her parents, husband, James S. Blair and son, J.W. Blair.

Vernelle is survived by her daughter, Jeanne Zimmerhanzel of Breckenridge, son, James “Alton” Blair of Breckenridge, brothers; Charles “Doc” Sullivan of Conroe and Jerry Sullivan of Mirra Vista, California, 3 grandchildern, 8 great grandchildren and 9 great great grandchildren. She left a legacy behind for the family to always hold dear to their hearts. Gone but, not forgotten.

Memorials can be made to American Cancer Society and left at the Melton Kitchens Funeral Home. Condolences can be made at www.meltonkitchens.com