James Steven Matson, 60, of Attleboro, Massachusetts, died peacefully on March 29, 2026, with family by his side.

James (Jim) was the son of the late Charles Roland Matson and Paula Jean (Menear) Matson. He is survived by his mother and her companion, Steven Gehrke of Vanceboro, NC, his brother, Jeffrey Matson and sister-in-law, Donna Matson of Seekonk, MA, and his sister, Amy Spencer and brother-in-law, Peter Spencer of Newbern, NC. Jim leaves behind his only daughter, Heather Gaudet, son-in-law, Jeffrey Gaudet, and granddaughter, Eliana Gaudet of Billerica, MA. He also leaves behind 5 nieces and 4 nephews, and was the former husband of Rhonda DuBois of Billerica, MA.

Jim was born on December 7, 1965, in Woburn, Massachusetts. He graduated from Tri Country Regional Vocational Technical School and became a licensed oil burning technician. Over the course of his life, he worked in a variety of skilled labor jobs. A highly creative individual, Jim had a knack for working with his hands, whether building a shed, roofing a house, or constructing a miniature log cabin out of twigs.

Jim found pure joy in the simple life – the peacefulness of the woods, a cup of black coffee, and gratitude for another day. He had a tremendously generous heart. Always pausing to help someone else, he was the guy to give a perfect stranger the proverbial shirt off his back. And if he had nothing to give in that moment, he would simply listen to your troubles and find a way to make you smile. His best gifts were the most precious of all, those of the heart.

Jim had an undeniably unique way about him and left an impression on those whose lives he touched, both loved ones and strangers alike. Outspoken, yet sincere, combined with a youthful playfulness and candor, he marched to the beat of his own drum and encouraged others to embrace their own authenticity, as well.

Jim felt most at home in nature, whether sitting quietly among the trees, watching the dancing flames of a campfire, or listening to the rhythm of rainfall. He had a deep appreciation for music of all kinds, reveled in the camaraderie over a game of cribbage, and never had a shortage of jokes to share with anyone willing to listen. He cherished visits with family, especially his daughter and granddaughter. He lived to help others and make people smile. If he could brighten your day, it was a good day for him. Jim wanted not to be mourned upon his death, but celebrated for the light and laughter he sought to spread on this earth.

May you rest in the sweetest peace. You are forever in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to attend the memorial service for Jim on Friday, April 17, 2026 at New Day Cremation and Funeral Care, 126 South Main Street in Attleboro, MA 02703. Visitation hours will be from10:00AM - 12:00PM, immediately followed by a service at 12:00PM. In keeping with Jim's wishes, he was cremated. His ashes will be spread during a private family event.