Williamston’s Mattison recognized by Anderson County Council

0
1545
By Stan Welch
Theodore ‘Ted’ Mattison, a well known community leader in Williamston, was recognized and honored by the Anderson County Council Tuesday night, with a resolution recounting and acknowledging a life of service to both country and community. Mattison’s latest achievement, his naming as the 2019 Upstate Black History Maker, was the reason for the resolution. But it was only the latest example of Mattison’s involvement in and commitment to, his community.
Born in December of 1936, Mattison grew up in his family’s home on Cherokee Road in Williamston. He attended both Caroline Elementary School and Caroline High School, graduating in 1954 with honors. He attended Livingstone College, but left in 1956 to join the United States Air Force. He visited countries all over Asia and the Far East. He served two tours in Viet Nam and was awarded the Bronze Star, which is awarded for heroic or meritorious service.
After a twenty year career, Mattison retired as a senior master sergeant. He worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for eight years in Florida before returning to Williamston in 1984. He soon opened Professional Exterminators, which he owned and operated for twenty three years.
The following year, he was one of the founders of the Williamston Action Community Club, which sought to develop opportunities through a variety of programs. The group purchased the old Caroline School and opened the Caroline Community Center. Mattison serv ed as president and director for eighteen years.
In 1999, at age sixty three, Mattison earned a Bachelor of Sciences degree in operational management from Voorhees College.
Mattison has always been active in the operations of New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church, serving performing  multiple roles and duties. His service extended to the secular world as well. He served on the Anderson County Human Relations Commission, the Appalachian Council of Government and its committee on aging. Other activities included his presence in Envision Williamston and its economic development efforts, and his six years as resident of the Minority Businesses Association.
The resolution was offered by District Seen Councilwoman Cindy Wilson.