June 5, 2021, 88, La Grange –

James Edgars Matthews entered into his Heavenly reward on Saturday, June 5, 2021. He was born in Wayne County to the late James Jackson Matthews and Vicey Parks Matthews on April 5, 1933. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Carolyn Coggins Matthews; a granddaughter, Lindsey Nicole Matthews; and a brother, Joseph Harold Matthews.

James had a long and fruitful career as an auto mechanic. He worked over 30 years at Richard Best Texaco. There wasn’t a whole lot that James couldn’t fix and he always enjoyed the challenge.

James was a man of great faith and a longtime member of Bethel United Methodist Church. He served as church custodian for a number of years. James had a heart full of love that he willingly shared with his family and friends. His grandchildren were his pride and joy and he was always involved in whatever they did. James’s love overflowed into the many animals he cared for over the years.

A service to celebrate James’s life will be held Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at 7 p.m. in the chapel of Rouse Funeral Home. His family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 6-6:45 p.m. before the service, as well as other times at his son’s home. A committal service will be held by the graveside in Worrell Family Cemetery at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 10.

James is survived by his son, James “Jim” W. Matthews and wife, Amy; grandchildren, Alan Blake Matthews and fiancee, Eileen Gill, and Amanda Caroline Matthews; and a brother, John Brantley Matthews and wife, Clara Lee.

In addition to flowers, contributions in James’s memory may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, in care of Jackie Overbee, 111 Cassedale Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.