Mid-Western Region NEWS

November 3, 2022
AKA Mourns the Loss of Former International President Mattelia Bennett Grays

November 9, 2022

Dear Sorors,

As we continue to mourn the death of our beloved 18th Supreme Basileus, Soror Mattelia Bennett Grays, who made her transition on Thursday, November 3, 2022, I write to share with you details and arrangements to celebrate her life and legacy.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Ivy Beyond the Wall Ceremony will take place on Monday, November 14 at The Fountain of Praise, 13950 Hillcroft Ave, Houston, TX 77085 promptly at 9:00 a.m. (CST). Sorors are asked to arrive at the church by 7:30 a.m. (CST). The attire is uninterrupted white – a dress or skirted suit without embellishments, flesh tone or white pantyhose, and white shoes must be worn. No pants or hats are permitted.
Memorial service will follow at 10:00 a.m. (CST).

Soror Mattelia Bennett Grays Day
I have designated Monday, November 14, Soror Mattelia Bennett Grays Day in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®. On that day, I invite sorors from across the world to honor Soror Mattelia by sharing your reflections, photographs, stories, and experiences about her life and legacy on the Alpha Kappa Alpha Facebook page using the hashtag: #RememberingSororMatteliaCondolences
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Soror Mattelia’s daughter, Soror Karen Grays-Gray, at the following address:c/o BKG Enterprises, LLC
P. O. Box 8012
Houston, TX 77288Donations in her memory may be made to:
Mattelia Bennett Grays Endowment Scholarship Fund
Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation
5656 South Stony Island Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637

We will continue to provide sorors with additional details as they become available.

Our beloved Soror Mattelia Bennett Grays, who was our Supreme Basileus from 1970 to 1974, served our Sisterhood with dedication and commitment spanning more than 70 years. We mourn the loss of our great leader and celebrate her life.

Please continue to keep Soror Mattelia’s loved ones, friends, Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter members, and all sorors and community members who knew and loved her in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Sorrowfully,

Soror Danette Anthony Reed
Supreme Basileus

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®