Jim was born in Thomas, Okla., to William and Anna Lee Mathis on October 26, 1938, and lost his courageous battle with cancer on May 21, 2020.
Following high school and some college, where he studied engineering, Jim joined the United States Army Reserve. He served in the USAR for six years, ending his enlistment in Oregon where he had moved in 1960.
While in Oregon, he met his future wife, Sally Casselman, while working together at Tektronix. Jim and Sally were married in 1963. In 1972 they moved to Mulino, Ore., where they raised their four children.
Jim was a retired Teamster and spent the majority of his career working as an inventory manager in the beverage industry. He never met a stranger, and a quick trip often could turn into a lengthy conversation.
Jim and Sally enjoyed several years of square dancing, and he was a proud member of the Elks. Jim enjoyed spending time with family, which includes Denny (Lisa), Rob (Becky), Kim Glover (Daryl), Ron (Tonya), 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Sally, of 57 years. Jim will be remembered for his friendly nature and sharp sense of humor.