Chief Matthew James King (ret'd), age 63, of Ayer, formerly of Bedford, passed away peacefully in St. Elizabeth's Hospital on July 3, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family near and far.

Matt worked as a Patrolman for the York, ME Police Department. He joined the Littleton, MA Police Department on May 11, 1981 and served that community for over thirty-seven years earning his way through the ranks, retiring as Chief of the Department on July 1, 2018. Throughout his career he earned numerous accolades and awards as well as the respect and trust of the community he served. Matt attended the University of Maine earning a degree in Criminal Justice.

Matt was avid about the outdoors. He enjoyed trips with family and friends. He loved to hunt, fish and camp, but loved nothing more than his beloved black labs, Apollo, Jake, Benson and Bud throughout the years. Matt enjoyed time with his family and was able to be with them all, most recently for a gathering where he saw all his closest family and friends.

He was predeceased by his loving parents, the late James P. and Kathryn M. (Sexton) King, as well as his late sister Allyson M. Raffaelo.

Matt is survived by his loving family: brother- in-law Robert Raffaelo of Chelmsford, niece Marie Luppold and her partner Jason Pond of Tyngsboro, Christine Raffaelo of Chelmsford, and nephew Robert Raffaelo of Ayer. Matt leaves his great nieces and nephews: Joshua Luppold, Justin Uzzell, Amber Uzzell and her partner Christian Ramos, and great-great nephew Avien Ramos. He also survived by many cousins that live throughout the New England area.

A celebration of Matt's life will be held on August 5, 2023. The location will be determined at a later time. Donations in his memory can be made to the American Cancer Society or your local MSPCA.