James Edward Matta

James Edward Matta, 82, of Bluffton, SC made his homecoming on January 13, 2022. He was born September 22, 1939 in Virden, IL, the son of John and Pearl Matta. He married the love of his life Ellanat Hampson on September 29,1961. She survives.

He is survived by two sons, Greg (Jennifer) Matta of Kennesaw GA; Thad (Barbara) Matta of Indianapolis IN; one daughter, Karah (Anthony) Viola of Mt. Pleasant, SC; six grandchildren, Sarah Matta of Acworth, GA; Michael Matta of Fort Myers, FL; Ali and Emily Matta of Indianapolis IN; Samuel and Ellie Viola of Mt. Pleasant SC; one great grandchild, Tyson Matta of Acworth, GA; one brother Rich Matta of Las Vegas, NV. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law and mother-in-law John and Milmae Hampson.

Jim graduated from Virden High School in 1957 where he had an outstanding football and basketball career. He attended Eureka College where he furthered his basketball and football careers, earning his degree in physical education in 1961.

Jim’s greatest joys in life are watching college basketball, visiting with family, friends, and complete strangers, traveling to watch his grand children’s games, and lastly spending all the time he could on the golf course. His last words to anyone he was talking to were “hang in there”.

Per his wishes, he will be cremated. A visitation will be held from 12:00-1:00 PM with a service immediately following on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at Sauls Funeral Home, 90 Simmonsville Rd., Bluffton, SC 29910.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Crescent Hospice, 10 Buckingham Plantation Drive, Suite A, Bluffton, SC 29910