James Matlock, born on April 29, 1958, in Williamsburg, KY, USA, departed this life on December 13, 2024. He resided in Corbin, Kentucky, where he was known for his love of puzzles and the joy he found in the company of his grandchildren. As the poet Rumi once wrote, "Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation." James' spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Mildred Matlock; his step-daughters, Gail Engle, Saundra Spears, and Letisha Owens; his step-sons-in-law, Wallace, Randall, and James; his grandchildren, Travis (Sherry) Engle, Joshua (Jamie)Engle, Tabitha (Bobby) Elliott, Leah (Marcus) Engle, Elisha Spears, Jeremy Spears, Eric (Shaina) Spears, Hannah (Dillon) Croley, and Bethany(Domonic) Tillison; his sisters, Lulu (Bill) Hoskins, Alma (Grant) Miracle, Susie (Tom) Lantgen, and Carol Mills; his brother, Edward (Beth) Matlock; and his sister-in-law, Brenda Matlock. Together, they formed a tapestry of love and support that will continue to honor James’ memory. He was also the proud patriarch of 13 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren, who were the joy of his life.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Judy Matlock; his sister, Roberta Brown; her husband, Hubert Brown; and his brother, Sie Matlock ; His step-sons James Thomas and Bruce Thomas and his grandson, Brian Spears. Their reunion in the afterlife is a comfort to those who mourn James' passing, for as the saying goes, "When you lose someone you love, you gain an angel you know."

We invite family and friends to join us in celebrating James’ life at the Croley Funeral Home, located at 103 South 2nd Street, Williamsburg, Kentucky, 40769. The visitation will take place on Tuesday, 17 Dec 2024 at 1:00pm, followed by the funeral 3:00pm. Interment will be held on Tuesday, 17 Dec 2024 at 4:30pm at the Steele-Harp Cemetery in Faber, Kentucky.

We encourage all who knew and loved James to visit his memorial page. Please share your treasured memories of him and upload any photographs you have of James that capture the moments of joy and love he gave so freely. These precious memories and images will serve as a lasting tribute to a man who touched so many lives with his warmth and generosity.