James Timothy Matheson

James Timothy “Tim” Matheson, 59, went home to meet Jesus and be reunited with his beloved parents on November 11, 2026. He was born on November 16, 1966, to James Ralph and Joan Moss Matheson.

Tim lived his entire life in the Sweetwater community of Clay County and was a charter member of Grace Baptist Church of Hayesville. He ran a lawn mowing service for more than 30 years. He also worked at Hayesville Family Restaurant, Young Harris College, and Our Place Restaurant, making many lifelong friends along the way.

Tim loved spending time in his woodshop, building and painting birdhouses and whittling wooden animals to give as gifts. He also loved eagles and John Deere tractors.

Tim faced health challenges throughout his life, and the way he met them showed God’s grace and strength. His family remembers him fondly. “He was a pure gift to our family and community, reminding us daily of strength and grace.”

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, James Ralph and Joan Moss Matheson, and his paternal grandparents, Amos and Ada Matheson. He was also preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Wade and Faye Hooper Moss.

He is survived by his brother, Anthony Wayne Matheson (Martha), and his sister, Debbie Matheson Moore (Jerry), both of Hayesville. He is also survived by his nephews, Chad (Kimberly) and Brandon (Erika), and his nieces, LeAnn Moore and Sara Moore. His great-nephews are Dakota Matheson, Braiden Martin, Evin Fields, and AJ Austin. His great-nieces are Ella Matheson, Alexia Fields, Ali Austin, Caylee Martin, Gracie Matheson, and Ariah Litchfield.

Also surviving are many special aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as Tara, his special caregiver for two and a half years. Tara brought so much joy and sunshine into Tim’s life and made his final days especially meaningful.

Tim will be deeply missed by his family and friends. His family treasures the time they shared with him and takes comfort in knowing he is home with Jesus.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at Catalyst Church in Hayesville. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m., with Wayne Matheson and Brandon Matheson officiating. Burial will follow immediately after the service at Grace Baptist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Chad Matheson, Derek Moss, Brian Matheson, Mike Shook, Lee Moss, Jerry Moore, and Jessie Matheson.

Honorary pallbearers will be Buddy Matheson, Wade Jr Moss, Roy Matheson, and Tommy Hooper.

Junior honorary pallbearers will be AJ Austin, Braiden Martin, Dakota Matheson, Evin Fields, and Joseph Rowland.

In lieu of flowers: Grace Baptist Church, 148 Grace Baptist Dr, Hayesville NC 28904.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.