Mattie Humphrey James was born in Madison County, Alabama on July 18, 1929. She made a peaceful transition to her heavenly home on April 9, 2026.

Mattie is the third of six children born to the late Orlando Owens Humphrey and Mattie M. Woodley Humphrey. She is preceded in death by four siblings: Virginia Humphrey, Helen Lacey, Orlando Humphrey Jr. (Billy), and Ronnie Humphrey.

She grew up in Huntsville, Alabama and studied on the campus of Alabama A&M at the Preparatory School where she obtained her high school diploma.

Her Christian journey began on July 2,1952 when she joined Phillips CME Church Huntsville under the pastorship of L.L. Reddick, Jr.

In 1953, Mattie relocated to Dayton, Ohio where she became a member of Phillips Temple CME Church, serving faithfully in the choir and various auxiliaries. She was honored as "Woman of the Year 1987" by the Business and Professional Women's Organization.

Mattie was united in marriage to Joe W. James, March 11, 1960, who preceded her in death. Left to cherish her memory are stepdaughters Diane Adams, LaNita Jo Fox and Therese James; devoted sister Vera H. Lacey, sister-in-law LaMarr James and goddaughter Marsha Henderson. Mattie was greatly admired and loved by her nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends, Betty Burton, Zenobia Horton, Margaret Hughes, Jesse Gooding, Brandon & Camyel Calhoun and Patricia Day. Her legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in their hearts.

Mattie was employed by the University of Dayton for 25 years. Upon her retirement, she received a service award by the university's leadership in recognition of her dedicated contributions to the University of Dayton community.

Even after Mattie's retirement, she remained deeply committed to education. She volunteered for 10 years as a student mentor with Dayton Public Schools, where she was recognized for outstanding service and unwavering support of students and teachers.

In celebration of her 95th birthday, Mattie received a special recognition from the General Assembly of the State of Ohio House of Representatives, Willis E. Blackshear, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dayton Public Schools McKinney-Vento Unhoused Student Education Program (136 S. Ludlow Street, Dayton, OH 45402).