A gathering of friends for Florence James, age 75, will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Benefield Funeral Home in Lineville.
Mrs. Florence grew up in Bluff Springs and graduated from Clay County High School and went on to attend Southern Union State Community College to study nursing. Although she ultimately chose to be a homemaker, her nurturing heart and caregiving nature touched everyone who knew her. She was the one people turned to when they needed comfort, care, or simply someone to listen. She always made sure those around her had what they needed — often before they even asked. She found great joy in raising her children and spending time with her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. A lover of quiet moments, she could often be found working through crossword and word search puzzles with a sharp mind and a smile. She also had a deep love for horror movies, never turning down the chance to watch a scary film. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and remembered for her strength, warmth, and unwavering generosity. She built a life centered on love, family, and compassion.
She was survived by her spouse of 27 years, Edward James; her daughters, Dianna (Jamie) Strickland, Dionna (Jamie) Ferguson; a son George (Lesley) Richardson; ten grandchildren, Jamie Richardson, Kimberly Griggs, Amber Dubus, John Caldwell, Micah Patterson, Brooklyn Shae Yates, April Cheyenne Willis, Autumn Lynn Kuykendall, Logan Tucker, and Aly Tucker.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George Thelman Mattox and Eleanor Laverne Jones; her brothers James Mattox, Edward Mattox, and Billy Mattox; her sisters, Dottie Patterson, Sara Mask, Louneal Ingram, and Margie Smith.
The family requests potted plants and vases.
Benefield Funeral Home of Lineville is in charge of arrangements.
