James "Shorty" Clinton Mathews

Wednesday, December 11, 1940 – Wednesday, January 14, 2026

James Clinton Mathews, affectionately known as "Jimmy or Shorty," of Rhine, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at McRae Manor Nursing Home in McRae, Georgia at the age of 85. He was born on December 11, 1940, in Rhine, Georgia, to the late Clyde and Lila Wallace Mathews.

A funeral service will be held at Sharon Baptist Church on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Benny Moore officiating, assisted by Reverend Jody Yancey. Interment will be held at Sharon Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Shorty spent his early years in the rolling fields and pastures of Rhine, where he developed a love for the land that would define his life's work. He was a farmer at heart, tending to his cattle with a gentle hand and a keen eye, ensuring that they were well cared for. His work as a mechanic was just as notable, as he could often be found fixing what others could not.

Shorty was a man who found joy in the simple things: the warmth of the sun on his back as he worked the land, the laughter of his friends, and the love of his family. He was preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Lila Mathews, his brother, Don Mathews, and sister, Dorothy Mathews.

Shorty is survived by his special friends.

James "Shorty" Clinton Mathews was a man who knew the value of a hard day's work and the importance of a kind word. As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, we celebrate the life he lived and the many ways he touched our lives.

You may express your condolences online at lowesfuneralhome@windstream.net.

Lowes Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.