Swansboro – Mattie Bell Riggs Connor, formerly of Dover, NC, passed from this life on April 11, 2026, just thirteen days shy of her 96th birthday. Per Mattie's wishes, a private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Left to cherish her memory are her two children, T.R. "Ted" Connor, III (Nancy) and Gina Connor Harris (Dwight), all of Swansboro; five grandchildren, Rachel Connor Nobles (Rusty) of New Bern, Dwight Clifford "Cliff" Harris, Jr. (Brynn) of Newport, Matthew Connor Harris (Stephanie) of Stella, Bradley Jason Connor (Hali) of Emerald Isle, and Trevor Cody Harris (Paige) of Swansboro; ten great-grandchildren, Stella Ann Harris, Peyton Elizabeth Harris, Cody Connor Harris, Lillian Harper Norris, Chase Eugene Harris, Aria Aileach Harris, Cameron Dwight Harris, Juliette Rose Harris, Cannon Robert Harris, and Bear Robert James Harris; beloved sister-in-law, Joyce Riggs of Dover and several nieces and nephews.

Mattie was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, T.R. "Buster" Connor, Jr.; parents, James Earl and Annie Laura Riggss; brothers, Charles Vincent Riggs and James Edward Riggs.

Mattie was a member of the Dover United Methodist Church, having served as church treasurer and leader of the United Methodist Youth Fellowship. Mattie was employed by the United States Postal Service for 27 years, retiring as Postmaster. In addition to working full time and raising a family, Mattie was an invaluable partner in her husband's life insurance business and volunteer activities. Prior to declining health, Mattie was a frequent volunteer at The Hem of His Garment in Swansboro. Her family and friends will cherish the memory of her love and devotion to her family.

The family would like to thank her caregivers, Karen Stott-Rocha, Crystal Seppi, Judy Suitt, Latricia Thompson, and AllynJo Carter, for their tender and loving care of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. The family would also like to thank the staff of third floor at Carteret Health Care and the staff of Crystal Coast Hospice House.