Matye Ferne Belknap

Matye Ferne Cockrell Belknap, age 89, of Gatesville passed away Monday, November 14, 2022. She was born to Tolbert F. “Top” Cockrell and Hettie Elizabeth Aultum Cockrell on August 9, 1933 near Cowhouse Creek in Bell County. Matye was one of ten siblings, three of which still survive her. Her family was moved at the start of World War II to make way for Ft Hood. They settled near Cold Springs and she graduated from Flat High School. Matye met the love of her life at a USO Valentines dance in 1954 and within months she married Doran Ellis Belknap, Sr. They were married for over 64 years until the passing of her husband in 2018.

Matye was a loving and supportive mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and daughter Debra Aiken. She is survived by her son, Doran Belknap, Jr; grandchildren, Doran Belknap III, Brandi Belknap, Robert Schiff, Arndria McGinnis, Maeci Ellis, Megan Ferrell, Becca Sheppard, Jenifer Stephens and Chris Aiken. Additionally, she is survived by 17 great grandchildren.

Her family and friends will celebrate her life on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at the Turnersville Community Center beginning at 4:00 pm. She will be laid to rest at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery at a later date.