Matthew J. Rich, 78, passed away on November 3, 2025, at his home in The Villages, Florida.
He was born on September 10, 1947, in Yonkers, New York, to Ruth Donahue Rich and John “Jack” Rich. He graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx in 1965, then joined the United States Air Force that same year and served until honorably discharged in 1971.
While stationed in England, Matthew met his future wife, Lucille. They were married there on June 27, 1970, and soon after moved to Boston, Massachusetts, later settling in Yonkers in 1974. Matthew attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice and proudly served with the New York City Police Department as an officer, detective, and later sergeant. Over his distinguished career, he earned numerous accolades before retiring in 1993.
After relocating to Venice, Florida, Matthew opened a security business and remained an active member of his community. He served on the board of the Sarasota County Fraternal Order of Police and as a leader with the local Boy Scouts helping his grandson and other young scouts earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Later, he and Lucille made their home in The Villages.
Matthew enjoyed music, reading, cooking, working in his garden, playing darts and bocce ball with friends, and spending time with his family and his dog, Katie Belle.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Matthew O. Rich. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Lucille Booth Rich; his daughters, Amanda Rich of Clayton, North Carolina, and Jacqueline Rich of Venice, Florida; five grandchildren — Devin Rich-Spadaro, Georgina Rich-Spadaro, Jack Meddaugh, Eryn Meddaugh, and Ethan Meddaugh; one great-granddaughter, Lily; his brothers, Christopher Rich and Robert Rich; and his sisters, Rosemary Rich and Susan Sheerin.
He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered for his kindness, wisdom, wonderful stories, and sense of humor. He was a leader, trusted neighbor, loyal friend, and devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
A memorial service will be held 10am on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Venice, Florida, followed by military funeral honors at Venice Memorial Gardens where he will be laid to rest alongside his son.