Mathis, “Jim”

Jimmy “Jim” Monroe Mathis, born September 14, 1931 passed away Tuesday, October 19, 2021 at Skyline Place in Sonora, California. A Lt. for the California Department of Corrections and longtime resident

He is survived by his sons James (Becky) Mathis, and Stephen (Cathy) Mathis.  Grandchildren Jamie Minmaugh(Mathis), Marc Mathis, Elizabeth Hervey(Mathis), Jonathon Mathis, and Mary Ellen Mathis. He is preceded in death by his wife of 34 years Ellen Mathis (1987), Granddaughter Christie Walls (Mathis) (2015), and  Michael Mathis (2020).

He was born in Phoenix, AZ to Raymond and Thelma Mathis (Carpenter).  He lived in Phoenix with his parents and brothers Bob and John, until the family moved to Salinas, California, where Jim met the love of his life Ellen Louise Hill.  Jim graduated from Salinas High School in 1949.  He enlisted into the Air Force where he served during the Korean War.  Ellen and Jim were married on Feb 15, 1953, and welcomed 3 amazing sons into their lives.  After his tour of duty, the family settled back to California where Jim began his career as a Correctional Officer at Soledad State Prison in Soledad.  In 1968 he was transferred to Sierra Conservation Center in Jamestown.  The Family made their home in Sonora where he retired in 1987 after 31 years of Service. Jim attended Columbia College and San Jose State where he received his BA degree.

Jim was a proud man.  Family was the most important part of his life. He was a loving and caring man who devoted his life to his wife, sons, grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 2 nieces.

Jim loved skiing, backpacking, and traveling around the country on his BMW motorcycle.  He was an amazing storyteller and loved writing short stories.  He was a proud member of the Tuolumne Band of Cherokee Indians and looked forward to their monthly meetings.

“Papa Jim” will be missed deeply by his loving family, friends, and all who knew him.

Terzich & Wilson Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.

• Date of Death: 10/19/2021
• Age: 90
• Residence: Sonora, CA
• Celebration of Life: held at 11AM on Nov 9th at Terzich and Wilson’s Funeral Home in Sonora.  A Reception will follow at the Family home 20558 Silver Dawn Dr Sonora.