Mattie Mae Townsend
February 14, 1917 – July 31, 2016
Mattie Mae Healey Townsend, age 99 of Bartow, FL, died Sunday, July 31, 2016, at Highlands Lake Center in Lakeland, FL. She was a long time member of the Church of The Kingdom of God Bartow. She accepted Christ under Bishop Sapp, then remained faithful under the pastorate of Prince Jacob Jones where she served as Church Mother, Evangelist, Missionary and Ordained Minister.

Mother Townsend was recognized in the community for her benevolent work which consisted of asking for donations to provide food, clothing, and shelter for the less fortunate and those who were homeless. She was known as the local Goodwill Service provider to those in need. When Mother Townsend’s health began to decline, she transitioned into the Highland Lakes Nursing Center where she continued ministering and her benevolent work until she could no longer do so.

Mother Townsend is survived by one son: John Frank (Queen) Townsend, Port Saint Lucie, FL; daughter-in-law: Shirley Jones Townsend, Atlanta, GA; brother-in-law: Joseph Jackson, Silver Springs, MD; Carlene Healey, Inkster, MI; four grandchildren: Jonathan Robinson of Bartow, FL, Antella Townsend, Miami, FL, Sherrie Townsend-Golden, Washington, D.C.; and Rodney Townsend, Atlanta, GA; six great-grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren; and a host of nephews, nieces, and friends.

Arrangements are being handled by Gause Funeral Home, 625 S. Holland Parkway, Bartow, FL where the family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Friday, August 5, 2016. Funeral service will be at First Providence Missionary Baptist Church at 11:00 AM, Saturday, August 6, 2016.

Interment will be at Wildwood Cemetery, Bartow, FL.