James "Eddie" Matthews was born March 24, 1936 and departed this life Thursday, November 7, 2019 reaching the age of 83 years. He was the son of the late Laura Jane Bell and John "Smiley" Matthews.

He married Betty Lou Steele and to this union eight children were born.

He is survived by: his wife, Betty Lou Matthews; four sons, Bill Matthews, Rondal Matthews, Tom Matthews and Earl Matthews; three daughters, Twyla Matthews, Ella Mae Matthews and Jane Dodson; 15 grandchildren; and 28 great grandchildren. He is also survived by:  sisters, Georgia Young and Faye Dobbs; and brothers, George Matthews, Jim Matthews and Jerry Matthews; along with a host of family and friends who mourn his passing.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: his son, Lester Matthews; one grandchild; one great grandchild; sisters, Minnie Gregory and Dovie Pruitt; and brothers, James Matthews.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 10, 2019 between 5 pm – 8 pm in the chapel of the funeral home.  Funeral services will be held November 11, 2019 at 11 pm at the Hicks-Vaughn Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in the Ingram Coffey Cemetery.