James William Matthew

Sunset: January 13th 2025

James William Matthew, 79, of Trenton, Mich., passed away Jan. 13, 2025.

Born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, James was the youngest child of Clyde and Laura (Maxson) Matthew. Clyde and Laura made their home in Huttonsville, West Virginia, where “Jim” spent most of his youth.

A graduate of Tygarts Valley High School, he married his high school sweetheart, Loretta Rosencrance. After the birth of their son, James Jr., and their daughter, Jewell, he traveled to Michigan seeking employment.

Jim worked for over 30 years at Chrysler Trenton Engine, there he joined the UAW where he met many lifelong friends. Sadly as they were making retirement plans to return to their beloved West Virginia, Loretta was taken from us in 2006, due to hospital negligence.

Jim was diagnosed with Parkinson’s soon after Loretta’s passing and bravely fought it for over 14 years. His only son, James Jr., passed in 2014 which left him devastated, yet he never gave up his Christian faith and was always optimistic. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to make others smile by sharing his famous jokes.

He loved music, feeding the wildlife, and going to the casino. He was a kind, generous soul and opened his home to many. He was a 50-year member of the Loyal Order of the Moose, a proud UAW member, a wonderful father, papaw, uncle, and friend who will be forever missed.

Jim, leaves to cherish his memory a daughter, Jewell (Vincent) Fustini, as well two grandchildren, James Matthew III and Kayleigh Fustini; several nieces, nephews and friends.

His wishes will be honored, there will be no services, his ashes will be placed at the Brick Church Cemetery beside his loving wife at Huttonsville … where their love began.

A celebration of life is being planned for this spring when he is finally “home.”