October 1, 2026
SYLVANIA, Ga. — Roslyn Clifton Matheson concluded 52 years as the organist of First Baptist Church in Sylvania on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026. Those who know her best would agree that she has always approached her ministry in the spirit of prayer, thought of herself as a servant, regarded the organ as her tool, and accepted her role in the church as one who helps the congregation experience true worship.
Charlie Cooper, Former pastor at the Sylvania church, described Matheson as “an even- keeled, effervescent, energetic, dedicated Christian with a willingness to do whatever she could to enhance the music ministry of the church.” In addition to playing the organ, Matheson led the handbell choir and even directed the church choir in the absence of a minister of music.
Matheson began taking piano lessons when she was 10 years old, and by the time she was 15, she was playing the piano at the First Baptist Church of Lyons, Georgia. Between her service at the piano and organ, she has dedicated six decades toChristian ministry.
Roslyn explained, “When Chris (her husband) and I moved to Sylvania in 1973, we knew on our first visit to Sylvania First Baptist Church that we had found our church home."
Roslyn’s husband, James Christopher “Chris” Matheson, owned and operated a drug store in Sylvania until his retirement in 1997. He was a beloved pharmacist in the community for decades, and his pharmacy was a fixture in Sylvania for many years. He was also a faithful member of the First Baptist Church, but died during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.
Matheson is a graduate of Tift College, where she developed many close relationships. She is also a member of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. She was part of the 100-handbell choir to welcome the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.
Cooper added, “One year, when we were without a minister of music, the decision was made to have a special Christmas program. Roslyn led the choir, and since the church is located on Main Street in Sylvania, she decided to call the musical presentation, ‘Christmas on Main Street,’ and it was a genuine blessing to everyone.”
Roslyn has emphasized that leaving Sylvania and First Baptist Church will undoubtedly be a bitter/sweet experience
“First Baptist has been a home not only to me,” but to my family, emphasized Roslyn. “That sanctuary is not just a building to me but my home. I will be moving to Gainesville, Georgia, to be closer to my dear family, but I treasure the beautiful friendships and memories I have made both in the church and in my community. Sylvania will always be my home.”
The church gave her a grand reception when she completed her 50th year as the church organist, and she specifically requested that she did not need to be honored again at a special retirement party, but the church provided a farewell luncheon for her and many people expressed their appreciation for her ministry.
Charlotte Lambert said, “There will never be another like you. I know your church family will miss you forever. Thanks for the memories, Roslyn. May you enjoy many more years with your family, but never forget how much we love you and enjoyed your music.”
Ruth Summers added, “You have been such a sweet blessing to this church and the entire community! I wish you the best on this new adventure in life.”
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