James Edward Mathews, 88 of Wanatah, passed away Sunday, September 3, 2023. He was born February 15, 1935 in Jasper, TN, the son of Walter and Sally Carrie (Brown) Jones. James retired from Acme Steel, where he worked as a train conductor for over 40 years. A dedicated father and hard worker, he also found enjoyment listening to blue grass, fishing, playing cards, sitting on the front porch, and most of all family gatherings.
On August 7, 1954, James married Sara E. Gipson who preceded him in death on April 15, 2023. He is survived by his children: Glenda Sizemore, Chyral Smith, Rita (Terry) McKinney, Dwayne (Lousia) Mathews, Tammy Smiley, Michael (Nita) Mathews, JoEllen (Chris) Marcinek, and DeEllen (Michael) Shope; 15 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren. James was also preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Marsha Mathews; sons-in-law, T.J. Sizemore, James Smith, and Nick Papalambros; grandchildren, Gwendolyn and Matthew; twin great grandsons, Gracin and Liam; and 6 brothers and sisters.
Visitation will be Friday, September 8, 2023 from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a Funeral Service beginning at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow at Angelcrest Cemetery, Valparaiso.
