Obituaries

James A. Matthews

Photo of James A. Matthews
JAMES A. MATTHEWS, age 54, passed away at home with his loving family on Nov. 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 nine years and Bank of the Ozarks for six. 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, Ark., on Monday, Dec. 7, 2015, at 4 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, N.C. 27710. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

Published November 29, 2015

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