Mattie James

Obituary For Mattie James

A Homegoing Celebration in loving memory of Mattie James will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at Faith Temple Missionary Baptist Church, 2916 Orient Road, Tampa FL Rev. Dr. Joe S. Hardie, Pastor with Leonard Johnson officiating and Bro Andrew Atkison, eulogist.

Mattie James was born on June 5, 1941, and peacefully transitioned on December 28, 2025, after a long and courageous fight. She lived 84 beautiful years, filled with love, strength, laughter, and unwavering faith. On that Sunday night at approximately 11:30 p.m., the Lord gently called her home.

Mattie, lovingly known to many as “Sister,” was truly one of a kind. She had a bold spirit, a sharp wit, and a heart full of love. She believed in telling the truth—whether you were ready for it or not—but she always delivered it with humor and heart. If you walked in looking a little off, she would tell you, but you’d leave smiling because you knew it came from love. Her laughter filled rooms, and her presence brought comfort, joy, and lasting memories.

Mattie lived her life in faithful service to God. She was a devoted and faithful member of Nassau Street Church of Christ, where she worshipped, served, and remained committed to her walk with the Lord. Her faith guided her daily life and was evident in the love she showed to others.

She was preceded in death by her husband Emmett James, her beloved daughter Bridgett Shuler; parents, David and Bessie Porter; sisters, Nettie Dennis (George Sr.) and Minnie Davis; her brothers, David Porter Jr. (Corine) Robert Porter (Margaret) and many aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Those She Leaves to Cherish Her Memory are Her loving children: Vivian Shuler, Jeannette Fields (Jerry) Phyllis Shuler, and George Shuler; Grandchildren: Latoya, Larry Jr., Wendell, Kevin, Ronald, Brendolyn, Eric, Marcellos, Dominque, Phillip, Pernell, Marlon, Marlos, Tyler, Daija, George III, Gianna(deceased), Jacques and 28 great-grandchildren along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Her loving siblings: Charles (Frankie) Porter, Marvin (May Jean) Porter, Russell (Tarkesha) Porter, Betty (Freddie) Warren, Bessie Carradine, Nadine Williams, Addie (Robert) White, Delores (Leonard) Johnson, Sara Porter and Jimmy Porter.

Mattie lived her life boldly, loved deeply, and served God faithfully. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.

“She fought a good fight, she finished her race, and she kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Visitation will be held for Mattie James 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Integrity Funeral Services, 3822 E. 7th Avenue, Tampa.

A SERVICE OF INTEGRITY