By Staff
Madge Brantley Mathias Edwards, 80, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2009 at the Hidden Gardens Assisted Living facility in West Palm Beach, Florida, following a long illness. Born on her grandfather’s farm in Nash County, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Sherwood and Hazel Brantley. Madge graduated from Bailey High School where she excelled academically and also in sports. She was invited to play professional women’s basketball but chose to marry Joseph Matthew Mathias, of Corapeake, North Carolina in 1950, who preceded her in death in 1963. In 1972 she married Mayhue Edwards of Chocowinity, North Carolina, who preceded her in death in 2005.
She was a gifted musician and because of her love for music, she taught private piano lessons in Washington, North Carolina for over 40 years. Her love of music inspired her students and many became accomplished musicians. An avid gardener, she was also a lover of animals and nature. She is survived by her daughter Susan Mathias Merritt of West Palm Beach; her sister, Lou Hobbins, and two brothers, Reginald and Roland Brantley, of North Carolina. A private graveside service will be held at a later date in Washington, North Carolina for family and close friends. Condolences may be directed to Susan Merritt at P.O. Box 3033, Palm Beach, Florida 33480. Contributions honoring her memory may be made to the following organizations: The Alzheimer’s Association, Inspirit and the ASPCA.
Tillman Funeral Home
West Palm Beach, Florida
Paid Obituary