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James David Matthews , 70, of Waco, was called home by his Higher Power on June 21, 2024. Visitation will be from 5 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday, June 26th, at Oakcrest Funeral Home in Waco, Texas.

James was born on July 11, 1953, in Corsicana, Texas, to Earvin and Linnie Matthews. He worked most of his life as a master carpenter and married Susie, his lil' honey, on July 30, 1994.

A strong, quiet, and stoic man, James celebrated 40 years of sobriety on May 1, 2024. Big James's servant's heart shared his experience, strength, and hope with countless others through recovery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earvin and Linnie Matthews; sisters, Mary Ann Matthews, Nina Ruth Matthews, and Florence 'Flo' Box; and brothers, George Matthews and Earvin Matthews, Jr.

He is survived by his wife of almost 30 years, Susie, of Waco; his children, Jason and Lisa Matthews, of Bellmead; Kelley and Jeremy Knight, of Springtown; and Jessica Burnett of Penelope. He is also survived by sister-in-law, Opal Matthews of Hewitt, niece, Stephanie Pittman of Waco, and his precious grandchildren, Logan, Ryan, James, Hayley, Deacon, Christa, Jasper, Madi, and Lexi.