James Edward "Jim" Matthews

James "Jim" Edward Matthews, 66, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away Sunday, April 6, 2025, after a lengthy illness.
Born in Munich, Germany on May 1, 1958, Jim was raised in Evansville. He and his twin sister Joni were inseparable and shared many close friends during their time at Harrison High School and Indiana University.
In his early adult years Jim was known as a free spirit who rode the tide of life. He had a passion for boating, water and snow sports, and manning the pits during Thunder on the Ohio hydroplane races. Always at his side was his beloved cocker spaniel, Chelsea. He developed an appreciation for vintage cars, and was an avid collector of watches and sunglasses.
Professionally, Jim displayed great talent for navigating the complexities of the hospitality industry. He played an important role in the opening of the River House with his friend and mentor, Joe Vezzoso. Jim then followed Joe for the reopening of the Executive Inn, where he was Sales Manager. Thereafter, he was instrumental in the foundation of Advanced Water Solutions, a company established in Evansville, that provided purified water for both corporate and in-home settings. This company went on to expand throughout the United States.
Jim will be remembered for his closeness with family and friends, sense of humor, big smile, deep compassion, and generosity toward others.
Jim is survived by his sisters, Marcia Matthews Hocker and Joann "Joni" Matthews, her husband Scott Van Sickle, and his beloved nieces, nephews, their spouses, and children. Nieces, Mather Zickler (Christoph) and Anne Matthews Lancaster (Paul); nephews, Robert E. Zoss, Jr. (Katie), L. Laurent Zoss (Sheri) and Banning Matthews Zoss; great nieces, Ellie Grace Zickler and Ava Jane Carter; great nephews, William Zickler, Winston Zickler, Parker Zoss, Becker Zoss, Crosby Zoss and Sam Carter; and his beloved cousins.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, Capt. William L. Matthews, Sr. USAF; mother, Nina (Schrepfer) Matthews; brother, William L. Matthews, Jr., DDS; nephew, William L. Matthews II and brother-in-law, David Hocker.
A private burial will be held on April 30, at 2:30 p.m., at Oak Hill Cemetery where Jim will be laid to rest next to his parents, with the Rev. Randy Moore officiating.
A gathering for friends and family to celebrate Jim's life will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, at the Evansville Country Club, 3810 Stringtown Rd., Evansville, IN 47711.
Memorial contributions may be made to the NewLife Animal Rescue, 6500 Leonard Rd. N., Mt. Vernon, IN 47620.
Browning Funeral Home is handling arrangements and is honored to serve the family of Jim Matthews.
Condolences may be made online at www.browningfuneral.com.