Retired Boston Firefighter, Thomas W. “Tom” Matthews of Dedham, formerly of Holbrook and Roslindale, MA, entered into eternal life surrounded by his family at his home in Dedham on Tuesday, August 1, 2023. He was 81 years of age.
Tom is the beloved husband of 60 years to Judith (Moser) Matthews. Loving father of Kelley (Matthews) Rock of Roslindale and Kristine (Matthews) McGowan and her husband Tim McGowan of Dedham. Devoted Grandfather of Brianna (Rock) Harpel and her husband Ethan of Stoughton, and Kaylee Rock of Arizona. Brother of Robert Matthews Jr. and his wife Elizabeth, James Matthews and his wife Francesca, and Barbara Donnelly and her husband Ed. Brother-in-law to Linda Marini and her husband Roy, the late Janet Ford and her husband Dave, and Cheryl Duffy and her late husband Brian. He is also survived by his many loving nieces and nephews.
Tom was born in Cambridge on November 3, 1941. He was the son of the late Robert and Mary Dorothy (Hennessey) Matthews. Tom grew up in Dorchester. Tom was appointed to the Boston Fire Department on January 17, 1968 until November 30, 2006. Tom was also a Disabled Veteran, U.S. Army.
A proud union member of Boston Firefighters Local 718. Tom served in several firehouses, including Engine 52, Ladder 29, before being elected Pension and Welfare Officer on Local 718's Death and Welfare Board for 38 years. Tom dedicated his life to assisting other firefighters through the retirement process. It was through his dedication to his work that he built lifelong relationships with many of his fellow firefighters and their families.
Tom loved spending time with his extended family and friends. He referred to all his daughters and granddaughters friends as his “princesses”. Everyone loved and adored Tom. Tom was a substitute father, grandfather, and a friend to so many.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Tom’s Funeral from the William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre St., West Roxbury, Saturday, August 12 at 9:00 am, followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Dedham at 10:00 am. His visiting hours are Friday, August 11 from 4-8 pm.
Interment Blue Hills Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Tom’s memory to Care Dimensions, 75 Sylvan Street, Suite B-102, Danvers, MA 01923 or online at CareDimensions.org/Donate.