James was born August 8, 1946 in Headland AL to the late Lorenzo and Emma Mathis.  He was the fourth born of four children.  He was a faithful and dedicated disciple of Joshua Generation Outreach Church and former member of New Hope Primitive Baptist Church.  Deacon Mathis was educated in Henry County Public school system, where he graduated from Headland High School Class of 1965.

James was a kind and loving person who was always ready to lend a helping hand.  He loved his church and community and actively participated on the front line to help and serve.  He loved and adored his children, grandchildren and everyone else children.  They were the light of his life and brought him much joy.

On Sunday, December 12, 2021, Deacon Mathis transitioned to his eternal home.  He was preceded in death by his son, Kelvin Mathis, grandson, Xavier Mathis, His parents, Lorenzo and Emma Mathis, brother, David Mathis and sister, Mammie Sue Salter.

To cherish his memory and continue his legacy, he leaves his loving Wife of 56 years, Lonie Mathis, one son, Maurice Mathis, three Daughters, Nancy (Eddie) Acker, Lachrisha (Terrence) Wright, Portia Mathis, one Sister, Mary Lois Salter all of Orlando, FL, 20 Grandchildren, 19 Great Grandchildren, Special Son, LA Jackson, Special Brother, Herman Grandberry of Buffalo NY and Russell Jackson of Orlando, FL. A host of God-Children, neices, nephews, cousins and close family friends.