Maebelle Marie Johns was born in Lewiston, Idaho on February 2, 1923 to Everett and Hazel Cox. Her father worked for the Bunker Hill Company, so the family lived in the Kellogg area for much of her childhood, where she graduated from high school in 1941. In 1942, Maebelle married Russell Edgar Mattmiller and they were blessed with four sons – Ed, Bill, Jim and Russell. They lived in the Silver Valley and then they moved to Klamath Falls, Oregon, where the boys finished school. Three of her sons went on to serve in the military – the Coast Guard, Marines and Air Force. Later she married Hubert Johns. Maebelle had a large extended family including 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She treasured each of them and was always ready to share the latest story about one of her kids, grandkids or great-grandkids. Thankfully she experienced great health well into her later years, and was able to visit her family often. On Lazarus Saturday, 2001, Maebelle was chrismated “Anna” at St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church. An integral part of the St. John’s family, she brought flowers for the sanctuary, cheerfully cooking food for the agape meal, humbly serving her Church family wherever needed. She was also a member of the “Young at Heart” group at St. John’s and counted those ladies as her dear friends. Known as “Grandma” to many even outside her family, Maebelle had many close friends of all ages. She was always there to give a listening ear, bring some beautiful flowers, and fruit or vegetables from her abundant garden to cheer up others, or crochet for a new baby. She willingly mentored young women, teaching them how to sew, cook and other useful skills. She was incredibly accepting, offering a safe place of refuge to many over the years. One of her sons said, “There was always room for one more at her table.” Her legacy of love has touched many! On July 13, 2005, Maebelle passed away at KMC a few days after heart surgery, surrounded by her two living sons, her daughters-in-law, her granddaughter Ruth, Fr. M. Shanbour, Matushka C. Horton, the Gallatins, Eleni Shumacher and a wonderful medical staff, including Dr. Burnett. She leaves behind countless memories of a generous, loving woman, whose kind heart and quick smile made the world a better place.
Maebelle Johns (Printable PDF)
Birthday: February 2, 1923
Reposed: July 13, 2005
Plot #: Lawn G, #1