ONEONTA – John E. Mattice, Sr., 86, passed away Sunday, December 5, 2010 at A.O. Fox Nursing Home in Oneonta.

He was born November 10, 1924 in Carlisle, the son of Job & Mildred (Porter) Mattice.

John married Frances Beams on October 2, 1945 at the First United Presbyterian Church in Oneonta.

He worked for the D&H Railroad as a Supervisor in the B&B Division, retiring after 42 years of employment.

He was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church and a long time trustee for the church; a member of the Eagle's Club and the Fraternal Bowling League. John enjoyed hunting, although his greatest passion was the New York Yankees, Mickey Mantle was his hero.

He is survived by his wife, Frances of 65 years; his children, Debra and Bob Archer of Maryland, David and Connie Mattice of Oneonta, John Jr. and Pam Mattice of Laurens, Melissa "Lisa" and Chris Carvin of Oneonta; grandchildren, Carol and Adam Pierce, Daniel and Kim Mattice, Samantha Mattice, and Christopher Carvin; great-grandchildren, Makenzie and Andrew Pierce and Kylie Mattice; sister, Joyce Stone of Otego and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents; two sisters, Adeline Jacobson and Ella McGranghan and a brother, Richard Mattice.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, December 10, 2010 at First United Presbyterian Church, "Red Door Church", on the corner of Main Street and Walling Ave., Oneonta, with the Reverend Dr. Cynthia L. Walton-Leavitt, pastor, officiating. A luncheon will immediately follow the memorial service in the church social hall.

There will be no calling hours.

Interment at the Oneonta Plains Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House, 139 South Lake Avenue, Albany, NY 12208-3256.

Online condolences may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com

The Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta, is serving the family.