James Joseph Matthews

1928 - 2018

East Haddam - James Joseph Matthews, 90, of East Haddam, passed away at home on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2018.

Born in Queens, N.Y., on Nov. 3, 1928, he was a son of the late James and Theresa (Eiche) Matthews. James was a proud veteran having served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He married his beloved late wife Catherine Harrington, and soon after, the couple moved to Hicksville, N.Y., and then to East Haddam where they made their home and raised their family. Catherine predeceased him on Sept. 30, 2008. James retired several years ago after a career as a machinist and tool maker. During his career, James was not only an instructor, but he also successfully invented several products which were awarded patents.

James was active in his community as a member of the Moodus American Legion and the East Haddam Lions. He was an avid outdoorsman and he loved boating and camping with family and friends. Most importantly, he was a devoted family man and will be sadly missed but always remembered with love by his children and their spouses, Eileen (Patrick) Dolan of Norwich, Patricia Matthews of East Haddam, Kathleen (Michael) Olearnick of Norwich, Barbara Stanley of Norwich, James Matthews of East Haddam, Joseph Matthews of East Haddam, Paul (Maryellen) Matthews of Tequesta, Fla.; 12 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and numerous extended family members and friends.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by two sisters, Frances Cave and Grace Lynch; and infant son, John Matthews.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, at the State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, with full military honors.

Donations in his memory may be made to Catholic Relief Services www.crs.org or to the Disabled American Veterans www.dav.org.

For online condolences, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com.