Obituary of Gabriella M. Mathisen

Gabriella “Billie” M. Mathisen, age 92, of Annandale, NJ, formerly of Lindenhurst, NY, passed at home peacefully on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Billie was born October 4, 1931, in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn, NY. She is the daughter of the late Thomas D’Amato and the late Marie (Marotta) D’Amato.

Billie grew up in Brooklyn, NY as part of a large Italian family, where she often recalled her fondest memories was of family get-togethers and dinners. As a child, she spent summers at her Grandfather’s farm in Hopewell, NJ, where she developed her life-long love of animals. Bille was a 1949 graduate of Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn where she excelled in Math, English, and particularly Home Economics, where she developed a love of sewing.

After graduating high school, Billie held positions in Manhattan at Bank of America, and would eventually become the Executive Secretary to the owner of 40 Wall Street. Billie eventually met and married the love of her life, Frank T. Mathisen. Billie and Frank then settled in Lindenhurst on Long Island after Frank’s return from a tour of duty in Korea with the US Army. 

Initially, a stay-at-home mom, Billie decided to return to work, eventually accepting a position at Chemical Bank, where she rose to become an officer in Human Resources. She always felt a personal responsibility to find people positions at the bank, especially if they needed that first job. Billie diligently worked to get them that position at Chemical, and years later, still received cards and messages of thanks from those who had long and successful careers at the bank. Billie would retire from Chemical Bank after over 20 years of service.

During that time, a key member of the family eventually joined the Mathisen household, a Miniature Schnauzer, named “Jonesie”. Billie and her dog were practically inseparable for the 15 years the had Jonesie. 

Billie is best remembered for her love of cooking and spending time with her family. Christmas was a special time, with Frank decorating the house and Billie cooking an array of Italian specialties. Family members always looked forward to her Holiday parties. She also loved music and singing. Frank and Billie would go to concerts on the Island and in New York City to see performers, mostly from the Big Band era, particularly her favorite, Frank Sinatra.

Billie is survived by her daughter, Susan Anne Mathisen of New York City; her son, Dr. Peter M. Mathisen and his wife Catherine Mathisen of Annandale, NJ. She is also survived by two grandsons, Paul Mathisen and Ted Mathisen.

A life celebration service will be held at a future date. Arrangements are under the care of the Martin Funeral Home in Clinton NJ. To share memories or to send condolences please visit www.martinfh.com