With the passing of Alberta Matlock last Tuesday, Evansville lost a truly remarkable and respected public servant The former Democratic City Clerk has been missed by visitors to her former office since her health forced her retirement after winning her fifth term in office.
There was no easy path in life that smoothed her way to the respected place in Evansvillians’ hearts that she occupied. Marrying young, she didn’t finish high school. As a divorcee with children to care for, Alberta worked in the laundry at the Evansville State Hospital, as a caregiver to the elderly, and as a hostess at Western Ribeye. It was while she was working at the restaurant that she met Betty Knight Smith, who was Vanderburgh County Clerk at the time. Betty saw something exceptional in Alberta and soon offered her a job in the Clerk’s office. Alberta worked there for five years, making quite a good impression on everyone she met there from judges,to attorneys, and the general public. She was efficient, courteous, and friendly toward everyone she encountered regardless of their political affiliation.
In 1994, Alberta was urged by her friend and mentor, Betty Knight Smith, to run for City Clerk. Alberta was hesitant at first, concerned that her lack of education would hinder her election. In the end, Betty convinced her that she had the most important qualifications for the office, efficiency, ability to supervise others, and the admiration of nearly everyone she came in contact with. With the assurance that she had job security in the County Clerk’s Office, Alberta decided to run for City Clerk. She won, and the rest is history.
She took special delight in performing weddings, trying to make each one special and sometimes keeping in touch with the couples she married. She also took pleasure in swearing in new police officers and firemen. She was the recipient of too many awards to name. Every Christmas her office gave a party and gifts to the children of St. Vincent’s Daycare. Alberta sang beautifully and often won local karaoke contests. She especially loved Patsy Cline. One of her last trips was with her daughter and granddaughters to the Grand Ole Opry.
Alberta Matlock was preceded in death by one son. She leaves behind a son, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, along with many admirers. She will be missed.  She Was A Truly Remarkable And Respected Public Servant!
‘Alberta Matlock Was A Truly Remarkable And Respected Public Servant’ ~~ CCO
That doesn’t say it all but it’s a good start. My favorite Civic Center employee of all time. I don’t know of another one down there who could be considered a close second. RIP Alberta. I will watch my parking and failing that will not ever again chase one of those meter maid carts down to beg.
Well said Bandana. Alberta was a class act with a huge heart.
Alberta was a friendly lady , she was also a politician and she followed orders from the Weinzapfel This paragraph was taken down by Editor because it was disrespectful.
She’s not here to defend herself but judging from your previous posts what you wrote is a lie.
You are a real piece of work.
We agreed. We took down Evitaxpayer post because it was disrespectful
Signed
Editor
Thank you bandana I model myself after you
Ok I agree it may have been disrespectful ,but it was not a lie , many people witnessed and heard it
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