Matthew Thomas Sullivan

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Matthew (Matt, Sully) Sullivan.

Matt will be remembered as a gentle giant; with his warm presence and the joy he brought to those around him. He had a special way with children and animals — playful, kind and always patient. His laughter and strong embrace left lasting impressions on those he loved and those who loved him. We will miss him dearly.

In recent years, Matt experienced meaningful personal milestones and growth. He celebrated five years of sobriety and was approaching two years seizure-free following a prior diagnosis of epilepsy in 2017. Regaining his ability to drive marked an important achievement, symbolized by a Jeep he proudly purchased. He found purpose and enjoyment in his work, maintained strong friendships, and valued time spent at the gym. Matt lived with renewed balance, structure, and happiness.

Matt passed unexpectedly after what appeared to be an incredibly normal and happy day. He went to work. He laughed with coworkers and worked hard. He was home for a bit and then went to the store. We’re still waiting for more answers, because he was found unresponsive in his car just after parking. We think he had a breakthrough seizure or cardiac arrhythmia. Either way, he didn’t suffer. His family wants everyone to know he was doing so well, and we were deeply proud of and happy for him.

Anybody who knows Matt, knows that he lost his brother, Thomas, almost 27 years ago. Our family is holding onto the idea that Matt and Thomas are together again swimming, biking, and playing basketball. Maybe they’re at the beach or on the slopes. And sharing in their deep love for their mom.

Matthew is survived by his devoted mother, Kathleen S. Sullivan of Concord, NH; his father, Timothy J. Sullivan of Concord, NH; his son, Koen Clark Sullivan of Concord, NH; his brother, Dr. John F. Sullivan and his wife, Rachel, along with their children, Cora (“Cece”) and Jack of Jacksonville, FL; and his sister, Anna and her husband, CDR Ben Hankin, along with their children, Nora, Isla, Ian, Emma, Orin, and Theron of Stonington, CT.

He is also survived by his aunts and uncles: Thomas and Nancy Manning of Manchester, NH; Joan Manning of Manchester, NH; Kathy and Joe Dusel of Wilbraham, MA; Maureen Sullivan of Springfield, MA; Eileen Sullivan and Michael Burke of Delray Beach, FL; and Theresa Sullivan of Springfield, MA. He is also survived by his many beloved cousins: Jim and Diane Manning of Amherst, NH; Colin and Erin Manning of Manchester, NH; Graham and Jenn Manning of Manchester, NH; Casey and Laurel Manning of Amherst, NH; Danny and Caitlin Mertz of Spring, Texas; Caitlin and Craig Cormier of Simsbury, CT; Caroline and Mike Harper of Longmeadow, MA; and Johnnie Dusel of Atlanta, GA. He also leaves his best friend, Kyle Savage of Concord, NH.

Matthew was predeceased by his brother, Thomas Noah Sullivan; his uncle, Frank Manning; his aunt, Susan Manning Harris, and his beloved grandparents: Frank and Rita Manning, and John “Jack” and Marie Sullivan.

Matt attended Concord High School, where he played Lacrosse and was a member and Captain of the Crew Team. He also attended NHTI. After working at several local businesses, including Family Vision Center, Cimo’s, UPS and U-Haul, Matt ultimately found a true sense of belonging at Smokeshow Barbeque. He was also well known in the community as a snowboard instructor and lift operator at Pats Peak, and spent much of his free time at ‘The Quarries’ and Exit 18.

Matt was a proud member of the Fraternal Ski Organization known as “The Deacons,” founded in 1984. He attended the organization’s Great Northern Seminar and formally joined in 2024 during the group’s 40th anniversary celebration in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Matt, you will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered by all of us. We love you.

Visitation will be held at Bennett Funeral Home, 209 North Main Street, Concord, New Hampshire, on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Bennett Funeral Home on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers please consider contributing to a GoFundMe to benefit his son Koen.