of Conway, AR

December 22, 1951 - April 6, 2024

James John Matyja, Sr., known to all his loved ones as, James, Jim, Jimmy, Dad, Daddy, Papa and Grandpa, went to be with the Lord on the 6th of April 2024. He was born on December 22, 1951 in Omaha, Nebraska to the late Joseph and Shirley Kratochvil Matyja.

James was survived by his brother, Gary Joseph (Marilyn) Matyja. He was a devoted husband to his wife and best friend of 44 years, Kristine Ann Steyskal Matyja, who preceded him in death. James was a loving father to his five children, Jason Matyja, Shay (Courtney) Matyja, Mandee (David)Griffin, James (Christy) Matyja Jr. and Libby (Casey) Griffin.

He treasured his grandchildren, Bailee (Seth) Towles, Luke Matyja, Emalee Griffin, Madison Matyja, Natalee Griffin, Hunter Griffin, Jayden Matyja, Brayden Matyja, Blake Matyja, Laney Matyja, Ty Matyja, Analee Griffin, Callie Griffin, Bryson Matyja, Dakota Lute, Thomas Griffin, Noah Matyja and Chloey Matyja, Morgan Holland, Carter Holland, Tristan Holland. The birth of Michael Syrus Towles upgraded him to Great- Grandpa.

Jim was a committed churchgoer, baptized on October 1, 2023. He found solace in the pews and community of his congregation. A skilled mechanic, Jim's passion lay in restoring vintage vehicles, tinkering away in his garage, surrounded by his favorite tools. In his youth, he cherished moments spent fishing and camping, fostering a connection with the outdoors that remained with him throughout his life. Jim's legacy lives on in the memories of those who knew him, a testament to his love for family, dedication to his faith, his craft and the simple joys in life.

A Celebration of Life will be at 2:00pm Saturday, April 13, 2024 at First Vilonia Assembly of God, Vilonia, Arkansas with a visitation from 1:30-2:00pm.

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