2 James Mathewson

Obituary – Mr. Mathewson, Maysville Ledger-Independent (October 6, 2009)

RICHMOND, Ind. — James Cooper Mathewson, 89, died Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009.

He was born in Vanceburg, on Feb. 2, 1920, to Otis and Grace Cooper Mathewson. James was the third of seven children.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Boyd Burris Mathewson, also born in Vanceburg; his two daughters, Leah Hoffman (Greg), and Jama Crowe (Bob) and grandchildren Jimmy Hoffman and Alivia Crowe, of Richmond, Ind.; two granddaughters, Jessica Hoffman and Emily Crowe McClain (Jon) live in Indianapolis, Ind.

James is also survived by three of his six sisters, Dorothy Wood Britt of Vanceburg, Lois Walden of Maysville, and Caroline Owens of Sardinia, Ohio; along with many nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Grace Mathewson; his son, Christopher James Mathewson; and sisters, Thelma Rouse, Margarete Megill and Jean McDevitt.

James graduated from high school in 1938 and received a scholarship to play basketball at University of Kentucky, where he also lettered in baseball. He graduated in 1942 with an A.B. in education and went on to receive a masters in business from Xavier University in 1960.

Upon graduation from UK, James enlisted in 1942 in the U.S Navy and was sent to San Francisco where he trained for an officer’s position in the Armed Guard in charge of a gun crew. He served in the Pacific until 1946 and then re-entered the service in 1950 to serve in the Korean Conflict. He was at this time a lieutenant commander. When he returned from active duty he was stationed in St. Louis, Mo., where he served until his discharge in 1954.

James coached basketball in his hometown of Vanceburg, from 1946 until 1950 at Lewis County High School. He also taught and coached at Arlington High School in Columbus, Ohio, as well as ninth grade football until he re-entered the Navy in 1950.

James was a member of the K-Club of UK, an Honorary Kentucky Colonel, a lifelong member of the First Christian Church; and a member of the Richmond Power Boat Club.

His lifelong loves were his wife Mary, his family, boating on the Ohio River, golfing and following his Kentucky basketball team.

Graveside services 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 8, 2009, at the Black Oak Cemetery, Black Oak.

Visitation 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, with services immediately following at the Riggle-Walterman Funeral Home in Richmond.

In lieu of flowers please send contributions to the First Christian Church, 100 S. 10th St. in Richmond, In.