Eleanor Margaret Mathews Nee Reed

Sacramento resident Eleanor Mathews was born and raised in San Francisco, CA, June 26, 1924 to SFPD Cpt. John & Margaret E. (Doherty) Reed. Graduating St. Joseph School of Nursing she dedicated herself to the service of others by sharing her skills and talents. She modeled love, joy, and compassion in her friendships with nursing and Marinwood 'buddies,' and others she held dear. She savored life with its ups and downs and made you the center of her universe. She would say, 'Bloom where you're planted and kill'em with kindness.' Smart, witty, independent, she valued education, genuine and sincere fellowship, and the arts. Blessed with the 'gift of gab' she loved bridge, big gatherings of family and friends over a meal, and the faith community. Living overseas, Ellie spoke 6 languages and served all regardless of race, creed, status, or cost to herself. She was full of grace and will be greeted by Jesus with 'Well done my good and faithful servant.' She leaves behind her loving husband of 58 years Charles R. Mathews, their children Kathye, Chris, Brian (Haley), Barbara Dana (Matt) and Charlie, and her 11 grandchildren whom she loved and adored. She passed unexpectedly after a brief illness on January 29, 2014. A memorial celebrating her life will be held in the spring. She was a wonderful woman, loved by many, missed by all. A Mass of Christian Burial was offered for the repose of her soul on Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at Noon, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Sacramento. Donations to Convent of Mercy Academy, CMAAA, PO Box 970943, Miami FL, 33197, may be made in her memory; a charity she loved & served while in Jamaica.