James Fred (Jim) Matthews of Laurel gained his heavenly wings on Oct. 23rd at his daughter's home in Lucedale. He passed away after a hard battle with lung cancer.

Funeral services will be held on October 26, 2021 at Colonial Chapel of Laurel. Visitation will be 12:00-2:00 with service to follow at 2:00. Burial will be at Sharon Cemetery following the service. He will be laid to rest between his two sons.

He was born to the late Louie P. Matthews and Lula D Thomas Matthews on April 10, 1944. Jim owned several businesses during his working career including Sharon Ref. & Appliance Repair, Sharon Satellite, Pine Belt Mini Storage and his pride and joy, Jim's Golf Carts. He had a love of cars and electronics.

He was preceded in death by his father, Louie P Matthews; mother, Lula D Matthews James; step-father Rudell James; and sons, Clay and Chris Matthews.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ann U. Matthews; daughter, Courtney Kittrell (Mike); his two precious grand babies, Avery and Matthew Kittrell; and sisters, Louise Jernigan, Taylorsville and Sammy Wempren, Taylorsville.

Pallbearers will be Stevie James, Sherman Livingston, Tim Freeman, Floyd Clinton, Billy Ulmer, and Adrian Loper.

Our family would like to thank the health nurses that helped take care of Jim. Forrest General Home Health (Dawn Barnett, Encompass Home Health (Alisha Slay & Lynn Fairley), and Encompass Hospice (Shannon Hollomon & Nita Poole) God's special angels.