James Lamar Mathis, Jr.

On June 22, James Lamar Mathis Jr. "Jimmy", of Orange Park, Florida concluded his pilgrimage here on earth as he passed on to the fulfillment of his hope in God. The son of James Sr. & Minnie Helen was born on December 12, 1954; he is survived by his wife Anne, their three children Michelle Haynes (Jeff), Billy Mathis (Amanda), and Crystal Rogers (Burt), his grandchildren, Whitney Mathis, Reagan Haynes, Addison Rogers, Wade Mathis, Gavin Haynes, Harrison Rogers, and Wesley Mathis, his sisters Gail Martin (Stanley), Ann Long (Charlie), and Loretta Rhoden (Steve), his mother through marriage Margery Robbins and brothers and sisters through marriage Louise West, Joyce Robbins, Robert (Dianne), Roy (Jill), as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jimmy and Anne married in 1973 and have spent the last 42 years in sickness and in health by each others side. Jimmy loved God, family and the outdoors; especially fishing. He recognized the need for God early in his life and was baptized as a teenager and began his walk with the Lord. He remained a godly example for as long as his body could bear it; a true example of humility and contentment. Throughout all of his physical decline, first by Ataxia in 2008, then numerous cancers, he maintained a quiet resolve not to complain about his situation or wither away as he remained as active as he could in the local church up until his last days. He was a true encouragement to those who knew him. For his friendly nature, his fatherly advice, his sense of humor, his fierce love of family, and his dedication to God; he will long remain in the hearts and minds of those that knew him. Memorial services will be held at the church of Christ in Middleburg on Saturday June 27 at 10:30am, located at 3155 CR 215 in Middleburg, Florida. Donations in his memory can be made to the National Ataxia Foundation. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com. Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring Street, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043, 904-284-4000.