James Elwin Matson

Jim was born January 24, 1931 in Tallahassee, Florida to Albert Elwin Matson and Helen Healy Matson. He attended Leon High School. Upon graduation he joined the Florida National Guard and served until 1950, when he joined the U. S. Navy. While in the Navy, Jim was an Aviation Photo Mate. In 1954, Jim left the Navy and begin his studies at Florida State University where he received his Bachelor’s of Music Education in 1958. Later, Jim went on to receive his Master’s in Education from the University of West Florida. He taught music and directed bands for the Escambia County School District for 40 years, teaching at Clubbs Junior High, Pensacola High, Ferry Pass Junior High/Middle, and Escambia High School during his teaching career. Jim was an avid gardener and was a member of the Pensacola Organic Gardening Club.

Jim is preceded in death by his mother, Helen Matson Shaw; father, Albert Elwin Matson; stepfather, Frank Shaw; brother, Albert Matson; sister, Helen Layerd, and brother-in-law, Gene Layerd.

He is survived by his son, James H. Matson and wife, Nicole Matson; grandchildren, Eva Matson, Alexander Matson, Micah Matson, and Miciah Matson; and his former spouse, Judith Matson.

We will celebrate Jim’s life at 2:30 p.m., Sunday March 15, 2020 at Bayview Fisher-Pou Chapel with Reverend Danny Brock officiating. We will have a time of food and fellowship following the service.

Interment will be held with military honors at Barrancas National Cemetery at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 17, 2020. The funeral cortege will depart the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday.

Jim requested that no one send flowers but if they wish to make a donation in his memory, they can contribute to Bailey Middle School, with Band written in the “for” section, 4110 Bauer Road, Pensacola, FL 32506.

The family wishes to acknowledge Jim’s many caregivers: Regency Hospice, Emerald Coast Hospice, and Emerald Gardens Assisted Living facility.

BAYVIEW FISHER-POU CHAPEL is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be shared at www.bayviewfisher-pouchapel.com.