James A. Matthews
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Nov 24th, 2015
- Death Date: Nov 24, 2015
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Biography: James A. Matthews, age 54, passed away at home with his loving family on November 24, 2015, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. Born June 19,1961, he was raised in North Little Rock, graduating from Catholic High School in 1979 and the University of Arkansas in 1983. James? professional career spanned 30 years in commercial real estate and banking, serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Community Bank of Cabot for 9 years and Bank of the Ozarks for 6. As an investor, James had a keen interest in the stock market, following its ups and downs on a daily basis. Growing up in the Lakewood area of North Little Rock, James developed a respect for the lakes and woods surrounding his home. He truly enjoyed the outdoors, relaxing on a local stream, fly fishing for trout, or deep sea fishing off shore in Louisiana. He hunted duck, turkey and dove. His culinary skill with fish and game was well known and appreciated by friends and family. While he was well traveled, James enjoyed trips to the Ozarks and Buffalo River National Park in his home state more than any other destination. He often stated that he need not go too far, since he lived in the most remarkable state of Arkansas. In 2012, James married his college sweetheart, Jill Storey, and while their time together was brief, their deep love and commitment was evident to all. A blended family of five children, one son-in-law, and a baby granddaughter was his greatest joy. His children will fondly remember his patience and his ability to mentor and teach life?s true values, and his counsel was delivered in a kind and heartfelt manner. A good listener, James continued to show interest and empathy to family and friends throughout his life. After his diagnosis of brain cancer, James participated in clinical trials at Duke University in hopes of a positive outcome, if not for himself, but for others who may later experience this disease. James? determination, courage, sense of humor, and his cheerful and positive nature brought admiration from all who knew him. James is survived by his wife, Jill, and children, Austin Matthews, Alix Matthews, Hallie McElvery (James) Miles Lane, Mason Lane, granddaughter, Lily McElvery, and sister, Dr. Helen Matthews(Charles Margulis). Aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends will miss him dearly. His father, Jim Matthews, and sister, Cathy Curran, also survive him. His mother, Alix Catlett Matthews, and brother, Joseph P. Matthews, preceded James in death. A celebration of James? life will be held at Trapnall Hall, 423 E. Capitol Ave., Little Rock, Arkansas, on Monday, December 7, 2015, at four o?clock with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to: The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University, DUMC Box 3264, Room 047, Baker House, Trent Drive,Durham, NC 27710.
God gives us many great people and James was certainly one of them. We will miss you James.
I was saddened to hear of the passing of James. I remember vividly the day I ran into you last Fall at St. Vincent's as neither one of us had very good news to share.
I liked James a great del. He was a fun and useful presence during his brief tenure with the Hillcrest Residents Association Board. I am terribly sorry that he has passed.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance to you in any way. God bless you and the family.
Although I did not know your lad, James, if he was a reflection of the honorable, fine qualities of his Dad, he had to have been 'a sterling man.' I extend my sincerest condolences. This is a sorrow no parent wants to know; It reminds us how treasured children are (regardless of age.) I am so very sorry to learn of the end of this young man's life. May you always place your trust in Christ; and, I pray The Almighty grants you understanding and peace.
Love from the Gilberts
Our deepest condolances for the loss of a great person. James was a good friend of me and my family. He will be remembered as a generous and kind person. He showed his hospitality to me and my famility every time we visisted the US. We also had the pleasure of having him as a guest in Norway. He took us hiking, hunting and fishing in the nature of Arkansas. He showed us a genuin side of american hospitality and culture. We will always be greatful that James saved our sons life when we were stranded in the middle of Buffalo River during a flood in 2006. Rest in peace, James. Our thoughts go to his famility and children.
Love,
Kay Douglass
My deepest condolences to the family.
Our hearts hurt for you all and praying continuously today and in the days ahead for peace and understanding. Even though we didn't know James very long, we are better people for witnessing his kind spirit and love for you guys.
Much love,
Carolyn, Clark, Clark, Cooper, and Miller McCarley
We are so sorry for your great loss and grief. Undoubtedly these past several weeks and months have been very sad and difficult. We have continued to pray for you as you have walked this road with James. We will continue to pray for healing and strength that only comes from the gentle arms of Jesus. We send our love to you and all the family.