James "Jim" W. Mattson

James W. Mattson, of Newville, PA passed away peacefully at his residence while surrounded by his loving family at the age of 73. Born in Woodbury, NJ, Jim was the son of the late Joseph J. and Josephine N. (Low) Mattson. He was the loving husband of Valorie A. (Eckeart) Mattson, with whom he would have celebrated 55 years of marriage next March.

Prior to earning a bachelor’s degree in ministry from the former Columbia Bible College, Columbia, SC, Jim worked almost ten years in the factory of Owens Illinois Inc., in New Jersey. Jim served as a minister for three years for a Christian Missionary Alliance Church in Barnesboro, PA. Jim later moved to Richmond, VA where he held various positions in construction work. After moving to PA, Jim worked for Norfolk-Southern Railroad as a train inspector which he retired from in 2016.

Jim was an active man, and in his free time, he enjoyed playing tennis, riding motorcycles, playing the drums, surfing, and family vacations on Hatteras Island. He also appreciated classic cars and frequently attended car shows and races. He recently became a member of the Drifters Car Club of Newville, PA.

Jim was the type of person to live each day to the fullest, putting his time with his family first, and “Poppy” especially treasured his time spent with his children and grandchildren. 

But first and foremost, Jim’s Christian faith was of greatest personal importance to him. Jim also valued his long-lasting friendships, and in particular, he prioritized maintaining special bonds with both immediate and extended family. Those fortunate enough to know Jim often enjoyed his funny, unique sense of humor. He was loved by all who knew him. 

Surviving with his wife Valorie is daughters Dawne (husband Tony) DiPrimio, of Sewell, NJ; Holly (husband Jesse) Moose, of Wasilla, AK; and Jamie (husband Tony) Rynard, of Pine Grove, PA. Grandchildren Ashlyn, Sam, Caleb, and Abby also survive him, along with his great-granddaughter Isabella. A sister, Ellen (husband Russ) Clawges, of Morgantown, WV also survives him. And he will be missed by so many more. 

Funeral services will be held on Saturday September 14th at 11 am. Hardingville Bible Church 979 Whig Lane, Monroeville, NJ 08343

Kelley Funeral Home, 125 Pitman Ave., Pitman, NJ. Burial will be in Eglington Cemetery & Memorial Gardens, Clarksboro, NJ.

Also entrusted with Jim’s arrangements is Hoffman Funeral & Cremation, Ltd., 2020 W. Trindle Road, Carlisle, PA 17013.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to Chosen People Ministries, 241 E. 51st St., New York, NY 10022 or by visiting chosenpeople.com.