James "Tater" Clay Matthews, 93, of Madisonville, KY passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at the Heartford House in Owensboro, KY.

He was born on November 1, 1927 in Madisonville to the late Clara Arnold Matthews and Albert Omer Matthews. James was a United States Army Korean War Veteran and he attended First United Methodist Church in Madisonville. He was formerly owner and operator of McGinnis and Matthews Construction. James' greatest passion was traveling.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his infant brother, Elroy Matthews; and his sister, Omagene Matthews Fertig.

Survivors include his wife of sixty-four years, Velma McAnally Matthews; nieces, Sherry (Andy) Kirk, Laurie (Kurt) Wagner both of Wyoming and Kimberly Major of Georgia; nephews, Darel Fertig of Texas, David (Danielle) Fertig of Wyoming, Mark (Jane) Major, Paul (Liliana) Major both of Georgia and David McAnally of Kentucky; several great-nieces; and several great-nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 8, 2021 at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Madisonville with Pastor John Kalz officiating. Harris Funeral Home in Madisonville is in charge of the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made in James' memory to the First United Methodist Church Backpack Blessings 200 E. Center St. Madisonville, KY 42431.