Obituary: JAMES WILLIAM MATTHEWS
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James William Matthews, a loving husband, father and friend, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, October 11, 2024.
Born on June 20, 1934, he was the son of the late Harold Way Matthews, Sr. and Ruby Ferguson Matthews.
A lifelong resident of Eden, Jimmy graduated from Leaksville High School in 1952. He received basketball and baseball scholarships to Wingate College and Western Carolina University. Following graduation from Western Carolina in 1957, he served in the United States Army. In 1959, he joined the staff at the Boys Club, where he served as Executive Director until 1967, when he accepted a position in the Department of Social Services. In 1973, he joined the teaching staff at Holmes Junior High School, retiring in 1996.
A member of First Presbyterian Church since the mid-1940s, he remained active in the church until his health prevented his attendance. He was an avid fan of Carolina Basketball and Red Sox Baseball.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Harold W. Matthews, Sr. and Ruby Ferguson Matthews; his sister, Marion F. Matthews; his brother, Harold W. Matthews, Jr. and his niece, Cheryl Nooe.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 61 years, Betty Shively Matthews of the home; his son, James Michael Matthews of Lexington, NC; and his nephew, Edward R. Matthews of Atlanta, GA. Extended family includes Pam Tanner, Caleb Embry and Gabby Embry of Lexington, special sister-in-law, Brenda S. Wilson and husband Sonny, and cousin, Ann Clark and husband Jim.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Building Fund, 582 Southwood Drive, Eden, NC 27288 or to Ancora Compassionate Care Gibson House, 2150 NC 65, Reidsville, NC 27320.
Boone & Cooke Funeral Home is assisting the family.
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