James Franklin Mathis

Mr. James Franklin Mathis, age 80, of Flowery Branch passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Northeast Georgia Medical Center – Braselton, surrounded by his family.

A Memorial Service will be held, Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 3pm at Celebration Church, 5560 Thompson Mill Road, Hoschton, Georgia 30548.  A private inurnment will be held at a later date at Memorial Park South Cemetery in Flowery Branch, Georgia.

Mr. Mathis was born October 4, 1945 to the late Joel F. & Josephine Mathis, 99, in Jonesville, North Carolina.  After a long career in telecommunications he retired from AT&T in 2007. 

Jim was an avid golfer, NASCAR fan, and the ultimate NC State Wolfpack alumni. It was rare to see him in anything but NC State apparel. He loved working in his yard and had a green thumb with everything he planted. He loved to work in his shop and could fix almost anything. 

Throughout his career and life he served in many volunteer roles. His most treasured were those with the BellSouth Pioneers and SISU. He had the opportunity to be a part of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and Paralympics in volunteer leadership, which held a special place in his heart. He also enjoyed time being the Mayor of Coconut Creek, Florida in the ‘70s. 

By far, his favorite role in life was “Pops”. From trips to Home Depot to grilling hot dogs - he loved being a grandfather. He was the perfect “Pops” to Janie’s “Mimi”.

Jim was predeceased by his high-school sweetheart, and wife of 49 years, Janie Mathis. He is survived by his mother, Josephine Mathis; his son, Brian Franklin Mathis (Holly Roseberry, partner); his daughter, Jolie Mathis Sims; his son-in-law, Keith B. Sims; his grandchildren, Elizabeth and James Sims; his sisters, Peggy Robbins, Linda Adams, and Robin Daye, along with their husbands Larry, Dan and Jeff; his sister-in-law, Kathryn West, and many nephews and nieces whom he loved to catch up with at family events. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Celebration Church in Hoschton, Georgia or The Alzheimer’s Association. 

Memorial Park South Funeral Home, 4121 Falcon Parkway, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542 is in charge of arrangements. On-line condolences may be made at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com

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