Obituary of James Matthews

James Ryan Matthews (38) aka DJ Drop went to eternal rest on November 27, 2014. He is the proud and loving Father of 5 children, Jayla Rene Matthews (5), Victoria Dominique Matthews (12), James Logan Matthews (15), Shianne Elizabeth Smith (18), and James Dylan Schirmer (18). He is also survived by his Wife Bethany Ann Matthews, long time Partner Tara Marie Amante, his loving Mother Jennifer Lynn Lewis, Brother Andrew Duncan Highsmith, Grandmother Shirley K. Riggins, Uncle Jimmy Riggins, Aunt Janice Murray, Cousin John Murray, a huge circle of extended family and friends as well. He was predeceased by his Grandfather J.C. Riggins and his Father James Dempsey Matthews.

A Jacksonville native, it was often said he never met a stranger. He loved music and was a local DJ for almost 20 years specializing in breaks and electro. He was also an avid motorcycle enthusiast, loved four wheeling in the mud. Most of all family time with all the kids. Some of his most treasured traditions included camping at Genni Springs, picnics pretty much anywhere, during the Christmas holidays piling all the kids into the BIG BLUE VAN to go to St. Augustine for Nights of Lights, the Boat Parade at the Landing, then going down to see the musical Christmas tree and watching the two youngest Jayla and Tori dance to the live band while the rest of us ate up all the cookies. On the way home stopping by the windows at Kuhn's Flowers and his favorite house in Holiday Hill that has all the lights that you tune your radio into to hear the music.

All of these traditions will live on because the love for your children is never ending and through them we will always have a bond and a piece of you with us too!

A memorial service to celebrate his legacy will be held at Arlington Park Funeral Home on December 12, 2014 located at 6921 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32211. The family will receive Family and Friends from 1:00 - 2:00p and the official Service will be from 2:00 - 3:00p.You are encouraged to share stories and pictures. A graveside service will be held immediately following for FAMILY only. Information regarding a reception will be available on the day of the memorial. Donations are still being taken for funeral expenses and also a fund to help support his children. If you would like to help please go to www.gofundme.com/hyzst0