Matthew Joseph McHenry Jr.

Matthew "Kip" McHenry, Jr., 69, passed away on July 12, 2026. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, on July 4, 1957, Matt often joked that, as a little boy, he thought the Independence Day fireworks were just for him. He spent the past 30 years living in Largo, Florida.

Matt was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew McHenry, Sr. and Barbara Ann McHenry.

Growing up in Providence, Matt spent his summers in Matunuck, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a lasting love of the water and the beach. To his Rhode Island family and friends, he was always known as "Kip." He graduated from Providence Country Day School with the Class of 1976 and earned his degree from Boston College in 1980. He was proud of his Irish heritage throughout his life.

Matt devoted nearly 35 years of his career to Raytheon, where he worked in Portsmouth, Rhode Island; Wichita, Kansas; and St. Petersburg, Florida. He was respected for his dedication, his work ethic, and the friendships he made over the years.

Those who knew Matt will remember his quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and his gift for telling stories that could make anyone laugh. He had a generous spirit and a big heart that touched many lives. A devoted New England sports fan, he faithfully cheered for the Patriots and the Red Sox, though after making Florida his home, he also became a fan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Rays—unless, of course, they were playing one of his beloved Boston teams.

Matt is survived by his devoted son, Patrick McHenry, whose love, kindness, and steadfast support meant so much to his father; his former wife, Jenifer, with whom he shared over 30 years of marriage; his brother, Paul McHenry of Dunedin, Florida; many beloved cousins; and countless lifelong friends in Rhode Island, Kansas, and Florida who will miss him dearly.

Matt will be remembered for his warmth, his laughter, his love of family and friends, and the countless stories that will continue to be shared in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Boston Children's Hospital in Matt's memory.