Selma "Momma Mae" Mae Fernandez
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Selma's obituary
Selma Mae Fernandez (Momma Mae) left this world on her own terms on August 23rd, 2025 and has started a new adventure as she always did in life.
She was the middle child of 13 children born to John and Margaret Fernandez.
She married and divorced Gerald Matson and then raised 3 boys as a single mother.
While raising her boys she worked as a waitress and then as a mental health counselor as she attended a multi year, rigorous training program conducted by Salt Lake Mental Health. After completing the program she continued her education and earned a bachelor's degree in Gerontology.
She then shifted gears and worked at Utah Power and Light as a Community/Government Relations Specialist ( Consumer Advocate). She was also on the Board of the local United Way.
She retired fairly young and spent the rest of her life gardening, writing, painting, helping to raise her grandchildren and being a positive influence to everyone that knew her.
2 years ago, while in the hospital she was told that she would only live a couple of days. We planned and then had a celebration of life for her that she thoroughly enjoyed attending!
She then decided that she wanted to write a positive book about her experience of living in a skilled nursing center. This may have extended her life because of her insistence on completing her book. " How To Survive in a Nursing Facility" was published to Amazon Books last year.
She is survived by her Brother Ray (Peggy) Fernandez. Her sister Rose (Scott) Jeffrey. Her son's Gerald, Robert and Ryan Matson. Three grandchildren Jaide, Nic and Jessica. Three great grandchildren Lucas, Jack and Sterling.
She was known as Momma Mae to many and is survived by friends and surrogate children to whom she was a shining positive influence.
A second Celebration of Life will be held at her son's on Saturday October 11th @ noon.
2775 East Kenton Drive SLC, UT 84109
Beer, wine and pulled pork and chicken sandwiches will be served. We invite you to bring a side dish or dessert to share.
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