Mattie Gardner Rials

Mattie Gardner Rials, 91, of McComb, MS passed away on January 13, 2025, at Camellia Estates after a brief illness.

She was born on May 28, 1933, in McComb, MS. She was the daughter of the late, James E. Gardner and Gladys McElveen Gardner. She was a member of First Baptist Church of McComb, MS, and employed by Pike Amite Walthall Library System as the beloved children’s director for 45 years, where she continued to volunteer until her death.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Roger B. Rials, an infant child, two sisters, Wilma Lawrence and Norma “Lucy” Simmons and Bill Lawrence, and a sisterin-law Claire Gardner.

She is survived by her two sons and their spouses, Steve and Rebecca Rials of McComb, MS; and Tim and Becky Rials of Maryville, TN; three grandchildren, Sarah (James) Mangrum of Hattiesburg, MS; Leah Rials of Hattiesburg, MS; and Hannah (Sebastian) Jensen of Chippenham, England; one greatgrandchild, Sybil Frances Mangrum, a special niece Karen (Robbie) Robertson of Centerville, MS, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

To honor her wishes, a private graveside service will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Christian Church, The Miss Mattie Foundation, or a charity of your choice. LOCAL LEGEND, MISS MATTIE RIALS PASSED AWAY MONDAY Mattie Jane Gardner Rials May 28, 1933 - January 13, 2025 WATER BILLING STILL A HOT TOPIC FOR THE CITY OF MAGNOLIA IN 2025 by Terry Jackson, GAZETTE City Editor - tdjackson56@att.net