James I. Matthews

James I. Matthews, age 85, of Celina, passed away Monday, September 2, 2024, at The Gardens at Celina.

He was born September 15, 1938, in Van Wert County, to Glenn Russell Matthews Sr. and Bessie “Leah” (Mottinger) Matthews.

Jim married Beverly R. (Hall) Matthews on June 7, 1959.

Bev survives, along with a son and daughter-in-law: Doug and Sue Matthews, and daughter, Deb Matthews, of Celina; as well as 7 grandchildren: Sherri Black, Amy Matthews, Kelly Uhlenhake, Paige Matthews, Ridge Allen Matthews, Sierra Matthews, and Victoria Lewis; many great grandchildren; and a brother-in-law: Steve and Linda Hall.

A son, Jeffrey Allen Matthews, passed away on August 28, 2019.  Jim was also preceded in death by five sisters and a brother: Mary Ellen Matthews, Margaret and Donald McBride, Marilyn Zizelman Stewart and Eugene Zizelman, Glenn R. Matthews Jr., Norma Jean and Milton Davidson, and Judy Kay Menchofer; and a brother-in-law: Billy and Barbara Hall.

A 1957 graduate of Celina High School, Jim was a farmer, and worked at New Idea Farm Equipment, the St. Marys Foundry, and P.K. Lumber, and had been a Truck Driver for many years.  He was a member of the Mercer County Fair Board for 19 years, and served with the Mercer County Sheriff's Office Reserves for 13 years.

Jim enjoyed camping, especially at the fairgrounds during the Mercer County Fair, and also at River Trail Campground near Mendon.  He was a fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Bengals football teams.   

Jim treasured time spent with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Calling Hours will be held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Celina, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 6.  The Funeral Service will follow, beginning at 4:00, with Pastor Darwin Dunten, officiating.

Burial will take place following the services at North Grove Cemetery, in Celina.    

Memorial Contributions may be made to EverHeart Hospice or a charity of the donor's choice.  

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