Jack Mattair

Jack William Henry Mattair, a psychoanalyst who formerly practiced in Manhattan and East Hampton, died in his sleep at home in East Hampton on Friday. He was 81. His family said the cause of death was not known.

A graduate of the University of Florida, Mr. Mattair earned a Master of Divinity degree from Emory University and a master’s degree in psychoanalysis from the Center for Modern Psychoanalytic Studies in Manhattan. He later became a faculty member there.

Mr. Mattair moved to New York in the early 1960s, first working as a Methodist minister and eventually transitioning into psychoanalysis.

A lover of the arts, in particular the ballet and the symphony, he will be remembered by friends and colleagues for his kindness, generosity, and big heart, his family said.

Mr. Mattair was born on Aug. 14, 1933, in Charleston, S.C. He grew up in Point Washington, Fla., where he was raised by Mabel and Royal Burlison, who had adopted him.

Mr. Mattair is survived by two nephews, Bryan Brett of Beavercreek, Ohio, and Gary Brett of Perry, Fla. Kerry Balchun, his partner of 40 years, died before him.