James N. Matthews

James N. Matthews, 80, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. He was born on October 9, 1944, in East Orange, New Jersey. Jim was a dedicated fisherman and captained four commercial fishing vessels over a career spanning 50 years.

In 1956, Jim and his family moved to Point Pleasant, where he began his lifelong journey at sea, working alongside his father, Nestor, on their party boat, The Flying Fish, in the 1960s. A proud member of the Fisherman’s Dock Cooperative, Jim’s passion for the ocean was equaled only by the deep affection he had for his friends, family, and his beloved cats, especially Morgan and Lily.

Jim was also an unwavering Pittsburgh Pirates fan, though his dream of seeing them win another World Series remained unfulfilled. Known for his generous spirit, mischievous sense of humor, and his heart of gold, Jim was a free spirit who loved to bend the rules. He will be profoundly missed, and his memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Nestor and Norma Matthews, his sister, Georgia Keith Matthews, and brother-in-law Joseph Moore.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Etta Mae; his daughters, Leah Matthews-Hay and her husband Robert Hay, Jaime Matthews, Kimberly Romanik and her husband Brian; and his three grandchildren, Janis Hale, Matilyn “Mattie” Romanik, and Tyler Romanik. Jim also leaves behind his sisters, Leslie Dillon and her husband Patrick, Patricia Lovgren and her husband Denis, and Alexandra “Moonie” Hahn; his brother, William, and his wife Hâng, sister-in-law Geryl Moore, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

Services are entrusted Jersey Shore Cremation, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan.