Imogene Matthews (Ellis)

BLACKWATER — Imogene Elaine Matthews, 82, of Blackwater died on July 28, 2021.

Mrs. Matthews was born on Aug. 4, 1938, in Sacaton and raised there. She was a daughter of Bernice James and Herman Ellis. She lived a happy, simple and frugal life. She always had a smile and a word to share with anyone. Everywhere she went she struck up a conversation with anyone who would listen.

She enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren. She was very active with the senior program and traveled to many states, including Hawaii. She was also an active member of Blackwater Presbyterian Church. She loved to bake, garden and go to yard sales and also enjoyed dressing up for Halloween, always winning the costume contest. She retired from Arizona Training Program at Coolidge, where she was employed for over 20 years. She enjoyed her beloved dog, Bingo.

She is survived by a sister, Philemine Emerson; four adult children, Merla Shorthair, Iris Matthews, Darrin Matthews and Geneva Gary; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother and a sister, her husband Ira, son Ted Matthews and grandchildren Emily and Baby.

J. Warren Funeral Services in charge of arrangements.