James Lynnward Matthews

James Lynnward “Jimmy” Matthews

September 28, 1960 – October 19, 2026

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Jimmy will be remembered for his humor, his honesty, his quiet wisdom, and the love he expressed in his own unmistakable way.

James Lynnward “Jimmy” Matthews, age 66, of Albertville, Alabama, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026.

Born and raised in Susan Moore, Alabama, Jimmy spent the last decade of his life in Albertville. He was known for his quick wit, blunt honesty, and a heart that was often bigger than he let on. He was humble, wiser than he was often given credit for, and never too grouchy to tell you he loved you.

A mama’s boy at heart, Jimmy found joy in life’s simple pleasures: a cold Mountain Dew, Waffle House at midnight, fishing, Western reruns, and reminiscing about his years working at PEMCO. He loved “going to eat” and visiting with family and friends—as long as nobody talked too much.

Through the ups and downs of a rambling life, Jimmy held on to a quiet, childlike faith. He believed Jesus was real and that He was who He said He was. For Jimmy, that was enough.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Megan Lynn Smith (Drew); his three beloved grandchildren, Micah, age 10; Mercy, age 8; and Margo Smith, age 4; his brother, Jason Matthews (Shannon); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Christy Layne Matthews; his mother, Carolyn Dempsey Ellison; his father, Paul Matthews; and his brother, Mike Armstrong.

Jimmy will be remembered for his humor, his honesty, his quiet wisdom, and the love he expressed in his own unmistakable way. He may not have always worn his heart on his sleeve, but those who knew him understood that there was a whole lot of love beneath that gruff exterior.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association in Jimmy’s memory.

Snead Funeral Home is honored to serve the Matthews Family.