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Officer Matthew Silvia

A husband, a father, a son and a brother. These are just a few of the many roles held by Matthew Silvia. Survived by his beloved wife, Christine, three children (Emily, Elise and step-son Simon), parents Ron and Joann, his brother Chris, his in-laws Bill and Claudette, sister-in-law Caroline, myself (brother-in-law) and his brothers and sisters in blue from the Fall River Police Department. Matt was known for two qualities above all else: his quick-witted sarcasm and his unbridled love for his family.

As a fan of the manlier aspect of life, Matt enjoyed the simple joys of collecting military memorabilia, fishing with friends and family, working with technology and woodworking (even if many of his projects were in a constant status of “work in progress”). Above all else, came his family. No amount of freshly cut pine or properly folded flags could begin to reach the love Matthew had for Christine and the kids.

Matt proudly served in the United States Army where he was deployed twice to Iraq. Like many others, Matt bravely continued fighting his battles even after returning home. Matt completed his service for his country in 2003 and shortly thereafter, he took an oath to serve his community by becoming a Police Officer for the Fall River Police Department. SERVICE, PRIDE and COMMITMENT. The mantra for the FRPD carried over into Matt’s personal life as well. Officer Matt, as he was known by the neighborhood, was always on duty. Whether it was breaking up fist fights in the street, giving directions to lost travelers or just being a watchful eye for the community, Matt never stopped being a police officer.

Matthew’s commitment was not  limited to a uniform or job, Matthew carried those qualities into his life with his family. His wife Christine, his daughter Emily (6 yo), his daughter Elise (2yo) and his stepson Simon (5yo) all became the defining embodiment of whom Matthew Silvia was. A loving husband, a caring father, a cherished son and a reliable brother. Matthew touched the lives of many, both in the line of his work and of those closest to him.

Taken from us far too early, it is an understatement to say he will be missed by many. I’m in the unique position of both knowing Matt as my brother-in-law and my brother in blue. It is with a heavy heart that I write this, knowing there’s such a long and painful journey ahead for so many. The most vulnerable from this tragedy, Christine and the children, will need support. As her brother and as her late husband’s co-worker, I vowed to her to do everything I could.


As I am sure everyone is aware, in dire events like this, the normalcy of life gets tossed to the wayside. Bills begin to stack up, groceries go unbought and funeral costs become crippling. The minor annoyances of normal life become lead weights, greatly hindering the already fragile healing process. The funds donated will go directly to Christine and their children to help ease the financial burden of the near future. Although no amount of money will cause the pain to go away nor will it bring loved ones back, my hope is to remove the worry of money from her already full plate.


The overwhelming amount of support and well-wishes we have received over the past few days is nothing short of extraordinary. Family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and even complete strangers. A horrific tragedy, such as this, shows the compassion of those around you.


Thank you everyone for your unrelenting support for Matt’s family. We can not even begin to express how appreciative we are to have you in our lives. Thank you and God bless!
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Donations 

  • Alicia Tholl
    • $20 
    • 7 yrs
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Organizer and beneficiary

Ross William
Organizer
Fall River, MA
Christine Silvia
Beneficiary

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