James Mattson

James “Jim” Mattson, 66, of Coatesville, PA, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Joyce “Joy” (Kaulfuss) Mattson, with whom he shared over 17 wonderful years of marriage. Born in Coatesville, he was the son of the late Charles S. and Bertha M. (Frame) Mattson.

A lifelong area resident, Jim graduated from Coatesville High School in 1977. Over the years he worked in the maintenance department at Pepperidge Farm, in construction, and later in retail, but he found his greatest fulfillment in being a devoted stay-at-home husband for the past 20 years. He faithfully drove the "Jim Bus" in inclement weather, transporting Joy and her coworkers to and from Hickory House for work.

Jim’s dedication to his community was unwavering. He was deeply involved with the Minquas, Pomeroy, Thorndale, and Coatesville Fire Companies. He was a proud lifetime member of the West End and Thorndale Fire Companies, and also a member of the Union and Keystone Fire Companies in Berks County. Beyond the fire service, he was a member of the VFW in Gap, as well as the Strausstown and North Kill Rod and Gun Clubs.

Jim loved his dogs—most recently his beloved Lily, who preceded him in death in April 2025. He was a passionate Philadelphia sports fan, cheering faithfully for the Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers. He enjoyed hunting for treasures at yard sales, refurbishing items to sell on Marketplace, and spending weekends camping with Joy at Appalachian Campgrounds. With his easy smile and gift for conversation, Jim never met a stranger and is remembered fondly by countless friends across southeastern Pennsylvania. He also relished a good all-you-can-eat buffet and joked that they never made a profit when he walked through the door.

In addition to his wife Joy, Jim is survived by his son, Lucas Savitt; daughter, Amber Kowal; stepson, Joseph Annable and his life partner, Kyra Williams; stepdaughter, Amy and her husband, Johnny Smith; grandchildren Nathan, Makayla, Joseph, Jonathan, Robert, and Railynne; and his brother, William B. Mattson and his wife, Janet. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by siblings Charles S. Mattson, Linda Kay Mattson, Samuel E. Mattson, and Betty M. Elliott Mattson.

 In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in tribute to Jim at Phoenix Animal Rescue https://phoenixanimalrescue.com/donate/