Matthew Bradstreet James, 57, beloved brother, uncle and friend, passed away surrounded by peace and love in his home in Ventura, California, on Dec. 21, 2025.
Matthew succumbed to complications from lymphoma after having beaten the disease in 2021. In his remission, and motivated by a new lease on life, Matthew made significant changes to his life and lived some of his best years.
This included moving with his two cherished cats from the Bay Area to Ventura for a warmer and more relaxed lifestyle that would also be closer to family; traveling to India and the United Kingdom; and attending many rock concerts and professional sporting events.
In Ventura he found a wonderful and supportive community and loving caregivers.
Matthew was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on June 17, 1968, the youngest of four boys. His family moved to California when Matt was four years old, all piled in the back of a VW Squareback for a memorable trip across the country.
The family settled in Palo Alto, California, where Matt grew up attending local schools, including his favorite Mid-Peninsula High School.
He was often seen riding his bike and loved spending time with his dog, Charlie. He would frequently come home from the local library with a stack of books, and remained well-read throughout his life.
Matthew went on to take classes at Foothill College, and worked in the hotel and restaurant industries.
He embarked on many adventures, including running the Bay to Breakers in San Francisco with his father, and hiking across England on the Pennine Way with his oldest brother.
Matthew enjoyed collecting memorabilia, including first edition books, the complete writings of Marx and Engels, signed photographs, and posters from favorite bands, including signed copies from X and the Descendents.
His life took a positive turn when he joined Alcoholics Anonymous in his early 30s, and he ultimately and proudly achieved 21 years of sobriety. His AA family, both in Northern California and Ventura, was a great pillar of support and friendship.
Matthew regularly attended AA meetings and conferences, and he contributed to the successful journey of others through sponsorship and mentorship.
Matthew was predeceased by his parents George and Beverly James, and his brother Alexander James. He is survived by two brothers Christopher (Kristin) and Geoffrey (Jodie) James; and 10 nieces and nephews: William, Anne, Phoebe, Calvin, Luke, Margaret, Adelaide, Peregrine, Jennifer, and Leslie, all of whom he loved dearly.
The family wishes to thank Matthew’s amazing support team, including his devoted caregiver and friend Pamela Owens, who offered loving care to him for the past three years and throughout the final days of his life.
There will be a public visitation, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9 at McDermott-Crockett & Associates Mortuary, 2020 Chapala St., Santa Barbara.
Matthew will be buried near his brother Alex at Mt. Whitney Cemetery in Lone Pine, California. A memorial is being planned for the spring in Ventura.