DO YOU remember that most important Sunday school teacher or maybe a favorite waitress who always made you smile when your family went to a particular restaurant? Perhaps you had a kind librarian who always saved you a book they knew you would love. Whatever they might have been, I’m sure you referred to them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their first name. It was a title of sorts, like sir or madam. They were important, but they were also your friend, hence adding the Mr. of Ms. to show respect. By Southern standards, being referred to as such meant you were significant in both statuses and the heart.
This would be the case for Winchester resident Vickie Mathews. She’s known as Vickie on her driver’s license; mom to her son, Jeremiah; Gigi to her grandson, Harrison; and Ms. Vickie to the many that love her.
Born in Decherd, Mathews grew up influenced by her grandmother. Affectionately and respectfully known as “Granny Tate,” Mathews said she learned about the person she wanted to be from her grandmother.
“My grandmother was probably the biggest influence on my life. She was always there for me,” said Mathews.
At 21, Mathews moved to Winchester and worked as a waitress at the local restaurant, Skipp’s Grill. Little did she know that she would be embarking on a career that would lead her to a life of service where she would become a staple for the restaurant.
“A friend of my mother approached me and told me they needed help. I started waiting tables and was promoted to manager within the first year,” said Mathews.
For the last 20 years, she has been the fuel that has kept the restaurant’s engine going. She works daily from sun up to sun down, ensuring that her employees and customers are cared for.
According to Mathews, the customers are the best part of the job.
“The people connection is the best part of the job,” she said. “It’s funny when all of your best friends are old men. We have sweet older gentlemen who come in daily to sit, talk, and drink coffee. They are a lot of fun.”
While she may not have known it then, over the last 30 years, she has created a life and a business where the community can enjoy some good food and some time with Ms. Vickie.
“We’ve had some great people come in over the years,” she said. “There is a saying that everyone should have to work for the public. But you know, those types of unfriendly people are very far and few in between. You do have those everyday people that greet you with a smile at the door and call you by your name. That’s what it’s all about.”
Mathews is also known for her hard work. According to her daughter-inlaw, Lacey Jones, Mathews gets the gold medal for diligence.
“She does have the kindest heart and tries to help in any way she can,” said Jones. “She would do anything for anyone. I think the biggest thing is how hard she works. She’s always working hard and then goes home and does even more. She never stops.”
When asked if she feels she’s a helper, Mathews said it’s just who she is.
“A friend of mine told me one time that everyone has a purpose in life, and mine is to serve and help people,” said Mathews. “I’m at my best when helping others. I don’t know that I give it a lot of thought. It’s just what I do.” GN
