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Mathew Rockefeller Obituary

ROCKEFELLER, MATHEW LANGDON 14, of Cumberland, passed away unexpectedly, Thursday, July 10, 2014. He was the beloved son of Raymond Rockefeller III and Jill Varian-Rockefeller. Mat grew up in Cumberland, he just graduated from North Cumberland Middle School where he was the captain of the baseball team. He was an honor student that especially enjoyed history, math, and science. Besides his parents, he is survived by his brothers, Jake, Michael and Daniel Rockefeller, his step-mother, Dawn Rockefeller, his step-sister, Candace Blake, his maternal grandparents, Richard and Yolanda Varian, his paternal grandparents, Raymond and Patricia Rockefeller Jr., and his maternal great grandfather, Aubrey Langdon. A Service will be held Wednesday at 10am in Arnold Mills United Methodist Church, 690 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland. Burial will be in Arnold Mills Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited. Visiting hours Tuesday from 4-8pm in the O'Neill Funeral Home, 3102 Mendon Road, Cumberland. In lieu of flowers, donations to North Cumberland Middle School Baseball, C/O Office of Superintendent, 2602 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI, 02864, in memory of Mat, would be appreciated. www.oneillfuneralhomes.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Providence Journal on Jul. 13, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Mathew Rockefeller

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Bill McGowan

August 9, 2014

My wife and I just learned of your son's death while watching Little League regionals on ESPN. Mat clearly made quite an impact in such a short time. Thank you for raising such a sweet boy. The world was clearly better for him having been in it! Godspeed, Bill

Renee

July 27, 2014

I lost my son at 14 years of age in August it will be 2 years. I didn't know your son but my heart goes out to you and your family. My prayers are with you

Shawn Christen

July 21, 2014

Buddy, I haven't seen you in over 35 or more years since we were kids and would play stick ball on your front yard with tennis balls and hit them into the trees across the street into your neighbors yard. I was very saddened to hear of the loss of your son Mat. My you and your family find comfort in The Lord in this difficult time of sorrow

Jodi Manni

July 21, 2014

Love you to the moon and back forever and always, sweet, handsome boy. You will forever be our Angel in the Outfield Mathew.

Mennie Family

July 19, 2014

Our prayers and deepest condolences to the Rockefeller and Varian Family.
May God's grace be with each of you.
We pray that Mathew can now rest in peace and is forever protected in God's arms.

Cindy Otis

July 17, 2014

To the Rockefeller Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. I was a bus monitor when Jake and Mat attended Cumberland Hill and got to know them. May Mat rest in peace and all the family find comfort in all your loving memories of Mat. Cindy Otis

Faltus Family

July 17, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Hannah Lanoue

July 16, 2014

Mathew will always have a place in my heart. He was an amazing person and an extraordinary friend to me and Everyone. I will always cherish the memories I have with him. From my first day at Cumberland when he was the first person to say hi to me and all the way to the last day of school last year. We would be sitting in science class bickering like brother an sister. But when ever I was sad or upset he would always put a smile in my face no matter his pain. Love you mathew. Rest in peace dude??

A Mom

July 16, 2014

Deepest condolences to Matt's family and friends. May your love and memories of Matt sustain you all during this most difficult time and always. God Bless all of you.

July 16, 2014

Buddy, Jill & Jake,

We hold you in our thoughts and prayers. You welcomed us to Cumberland when we moved next door to you back on Ballou Street. While we left Cumberland a long time ago, your family left an indelible impression. May you find peace in your memories of a wonderful young man.
Linda, Dani, Evan & Hannah Witherby

Cassidy Carr

July 15, 2014

Rockefeller family, I knew mat through out middle school and got to know him pretty well. I will forever remember how he could make anyone smile at any moment in time. Prayers and thoughts to your family. He will be missed by everyone.

Stoddart Family

July 15, 2014

Sending our sympathy and prayers to your family. We hope you find strength in all the love and support sent your way.

July 15, 2014

Jill, words cannot express how sorry we were to hear about your son. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Grace(from Poppys) and Gerry Poulin

Cumberland Mom

July 15, 2014

My heart goes out to Matt's family and friends. He must have been a very special son, brother, grandson and friend to all of you. May he be in peace now.

Lori Allen

July 15, 2014

My deepest sympathies go to your entire family. You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

Rest in peace, Mat.

Pilar Maury-Binder

July 15, 2014

There are no words that will ease your pain and sadness in losing a fine & good looking boy. We could only hope he is now at peace and smiling down on you & family. Many blessings and Godspeed on the loss of Mat L. Rockefeller your SON.

Denise Carvalho

July 15, 2014

Ray & Dawn,

So very sorry for the loss of Matthew.

July 15, 2014

We are so sorry for your loss. We will continue to pray for all of you. May God bless your Mathew, I am sure he is at peace.
Love and Prayer's, The Nocera family

Jason Kornberg

July 15, 2014

Ray & Family,

Deeply sorry for the loss of your beautiful son. My son was a classmate of Mathew's and he always had the kindest things to say about your son. My prayers to you and your family.

The McGinn family

July 15, 2014

To the Rockefeller family,
we send all of our heartfelt condolences to you. Please know our prayers and thoughts are with you during this time of unimaginable sadness. May God Bless your beloved son Mathew.

Stephanie Jackvony

July 15, 2014

Dear Ray & family 
We are so sorry for the loss of your son Mathew. We never had the pleasure to actually get to know him, but he seemed like a pretty awesome kid. We pray that you all find peace knowing that your sweet boy is at rest and with you always. 
Stephanie Jackvony & Family

Trish buchholz- archimbaud

July 15, 2014

Buddy -- so sorry for the loss of your son. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family

Diana Medeiros

July 15, 2014

Ray & Family:

I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful son, Mathew. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Justin Rattie

July 15, 2014

im sorry for your loss. I played baseball with Matt and go to school with his brother Jake. I will be praying for all of you

Eric rattie

July 15, 2014

Sorry for your loss. My son has played baseball with Matt. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
-the rattie family

Sharon & Mickey Brady

July 15, 2014

Ray & Family,
Although we cannot imagine your heartbreak, our prayers are with you and your family through these times. Always keep the memories of him in your heart because he is the angel that is watching over you.

Simone Dupuis

July 15, 2014

I remember how proud you were of your boys and the pictures we would see. You are truly in thoughts and prayers of all who know you and knew your children thru you speaking of them. How passionate and proud you were as a mom. Prayers for you and your family my heart breaks for you.

July 15, 2014

We are so sorry for the loss of your son, Mathew. We had the chance to meet him when our son Andrew played baseball with him. May your love and memories give you strength. Our thoughts are with you.
The Rzemien Family

July 15, 2014

Our prayers to you and your family

Brittany Giguere

July 14, 2014

Mat and I were classmates since second grade and he will be greatly missed. Prayers for your family during this difficult time.

Liz Ponte

July 14, 2014

Ray, Dawn & Family:
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers.

Alison Laplume

July 14, 2014

I had the pleasure of teaching Mat in 1st grade and then again through his middle schools years. He was always willing to try something new in art and kept everyone smiling. Many thoughts and prayers to your family during this time, he will be greatly missed.

The Froment Family

July 14, 2014

To Ray, Jill, and Jake
Although we cannot imagine your heartbreak, our prayers are with you for strength to get through these times as well as our prayers for Eternal Peace for Mathew. He was a special friend to all who knew him, and we will keep our memories close to our heart always. God Bless.

Caroline Froment

July 14, 2014

The Rockefeller family,
There aren't enough words to express my sorrow for the loss of Mathew. He will always hold a special place in my heart. From kindergarten all throughout school, we shared a special bond. He could make me laugh, we could confide in each other, and he was a true friend. He could make me smile all day just from one of his silly jokes. These are the memories I will hold onto forever. Much love.

The Pellegrini Family

July 14, 2014

We are so very sorry for your loss. Mathew was special to so many including our son Sam; a friend, classmate and teammate. May you find comfort in your memories of Mathew. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.

Diane Hulme

July 14, 2014

Were so sorry for this awful.loss I work at the Cumberland HS cafeteria and I didnt know your family but I can tell you I gave my son an extra hug and I am sorry I cant imagine it please know thia has affected ao many people deepest sympathy

Sam Pellegrini

July 14, 2014

Mat was always ready to make everyone laugh and was a great friend. It was a blessing to be a friend and teammate of Mat's. He will be sorely missed and never forgotten

The Gawel Family

July 14, 2014

Our prayers go out to all of Mat's family and friends. He will be sadly missed but never forgotten. God Bless you al.

Tom Colomey

July 14, 2014

We are all so very sorry for your loss. We can't even begin to imagine the pain that you are in but please try to find some comfort knowing that Mat is in a better place now and at peace.
Mat was a great kid - pure and simple. I had the pleasure of Coaching Rock on our Cumberland Colts Football Team for the last couple of years. He always seemed so happy and content when he was practicing or playing a game. There has never been a better teammate in all of my years of coaching - he was always trying to pick other players up and get everyone going.
I will always remember Mat with that awesome crooked smile, leaning back and giving me a big bro handshake and hug and saying' Hi Coach'.
You will be sorely missed Rock.
Rest in Peace.
The Colomey Family

Isabel Almeida -Mota

July 14, 2014

Ray and family, words don't seem enough, I can't imagine the grieve and sadness you all feel. We seem helpless, don't know what to say to ease your pain! May God give you strength in this difficult time !!

July 14, 2014

Dear Jill, Jake and the entire Varian-Rockefeller family,
There are no right words to describe how incredibly sorry we are about Mathew. You have been in our thoughts constantly and will continue to be. We send our most sincere condolences, along with many hugs. Love, Joe and Vicki Wahler

ST JEAN FAMILY

July 14, 2014

Sending love and support to you all! Mathew was an incredibly funny and adorable kid, who will be greatly missed by all.

mike and lesley petitbon

July 14, 2014

dear rockefellor family, I did not know matthew but from all the wonderful things about him in the guest book,it sounds like he was a great young man. you should be proud of how many people loved him. we are so sorry for your loss.

Annie Goh

July 14, 2014

Ray, I'm so sorry to hear about your son's passing.. My sincere condolences to you and family.

Lisa Grzesiak

July 14, 2014

My sincerest sympathy to the Rockefeller family for your loss. RIP Mathew

Joe Samek

July 14, 2014

I had the good fortune to have Mat in my science AGS class where he was a great student and lab partner to all. Always quick with a joke or a big smile, Mat made NCMS a better place.

Candace Brooks

July 14, 2014

To Jill and Family, Words cannot express the sadness I feel to hear about Mathew's passing. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. I never met Mathew but if he is anything like you Jill,I am without a doubt 100% positive he is a remarkable human being, much like yourself. Though I know you and your family weren't ready to let Mathew go so soon, may you calm your weeping hearts knowing from his passing, another guardian angel did bloom.

Mirella Ferris

July 14, 2014

Ray I am so very sorry for your loss. I can not imagine the sadness you must feel. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Eloise DiCesare (Mrs. D.)

July 14, 2014

My heart is breaking for all of Mat's family and friends at this trying time. Being the secretary at NCMS, I had the privilege of meeting this fine young man and getting to know him. I know you are aware of how loved he was by all who met him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Elaine Manteiga

July 14, 2014

Words cannot express the sadness that is felt with the loss of such a wonderful youg man. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Jay and Pat Johnson

July 14, 2014

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998

aimee r

July 13, 2014

Prayers for all of your family in the days ahead. I am sorry for your loss.

July 13, 2014

Jill and Family , so sorry for your loss
Sending my Love and Prayers to all
Love Camille and Hal

July 13, 2014

Raymond and Jill, My sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of Mat. May prayers strengthen you and memories comfort you, and may our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loves us, comfort your hearts and "make you firm". (2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17)

Rachel Emery

July 13, 2014

To all of those who knew and loved Mat, especially his family and closest friends...we will forever remember Mat as a special boy who understood the importance of patience, laughter, and friendship. I had the honor of being one of Mat's teachers at NCMS...he was always a positive force in class...funny, curious, and engaging..but he was not only a good student..he was a teacher too...he taught us all about the importance of appreciating the moment...taking the time to have a conversation and making each other smile. I will forever thank him for that.

Nancy O'Donnell-Christenson

July 13, 2014

Buddy & Family, The words just don't exist for the sorrow you must be experiencing. Please know my thoughts and prayers for peace and strength are with you...

Donna Meehan

July 13, 2014

Ray & Jill:

We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family.

God Bless,

Donna, Savonnah & Courtney

Kim Langlois

July 13, 2014

So sorry for the loss of your son/brother. I knew Matt in 6th grade. He was a great kid and I'm sure he will be missed by many.
Kim Langlois and family

Selena Scott

July 13, 2014

Ray, Jill and Family
My heart aches for your loss. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

-Selena Scott, Cumberland RI

Bob Harris

July 13, 2014

I'm so sorry for your loss. I did not know your Son but my thoughts and prayers are with you and your Son. He is now with Jesus smiling down from Heaven. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Patty Monteleone

July 13, 2014

To the Rockefeller/Varian Family,
I feel and understand your pain. I lost My son 9 years ago at the age of 14. Life is never the same but you learn to carry on with the love in your heart and the faith that they are in a better place.
If you need to connect, Facebook me and maybe I can comfort you in some small way

Coach Mike and Wendy Hitchcock

July 13, 2014

Dear Ray, Jill and Family,

We are so sad to learn of Mathew's passing.

He was a special kid that would brighten anyone's day. I had the privledge of having Mat on the 2013 Babe Ruth team and witnessed first hand what a tremendous young man, leader and team mate he was with the other boys. His ability to boost the confidence of a struggling player was truly a gift he displayed whenever needed.

Mat will always be remembered as a very special kid with a big heart.

side by side..friends..

Tina Mcveigh

July 13, 2014

Words cannot even express the sorrow we feel for all of you right now. We loved watching Matt play football. Christopher will forever miss and remember his best football buddy. We wish you peace and healing at this difficult time.
Love &Light
The Choquette Family

July 13, 2014

We are so sorry for your loss.
Melissa and Brendan squillante

Terry Gardiner

July 13, 2014

Ray,
I'm so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

The Barry Family

July 13, 2014

Love and prayers to all of Mat's family. Our hearts are broken for you! Rock meant so much to so many! We will all forever take a piece of him with us in all that we do. He will never be forgotten!

Alan, Marguerite, Jonathan & Sarah Vadnais

July 13, 2014

We were so sad to hear the news about matt. I first met matt thru the cumberland town baseball, then later on when I coached for the Pawtucket boys club, my son jonathan was a pitcher and matt was his catcher a outstanding player who was always polite a very nice young man. Our thoughts and prayer to the entire Rockefeller family during this hard time.

Jeffrey Kelly and family

July 13, 2014

Jill, Jake and family,
We were so sad to hear the news about Mat. Our love and prayers go out to you and all of Mat's family.

katie janke

July 12, 2014

Mathew was a great kid, I got the chance to meet him a while ago through mutual friends. He would always make everyone laugh until they cried. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard time.

July 12, 2014

We are so very sorry for your loss. Mat was wonderful young man who will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers to the entire Rockefeller family.

The St.Amand Family

Melissa Custer

July 12, 2014

I am so sorry for your loss. I got the pleasure of knowing Mat through being a co-teacher in two classes with him. He had a great sense of humor. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Deb Sousa

July 12, 2014

Ray, Dawn, Jake and family
My deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene Valerio

July 12, 2014

Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers!!! Love and Light!!!!

Doreen Hughes

July 12, 2014

Mat was an incredible person and will forever be in everyone's hearts. I got to know Mat for the special person he was through football with the Colts and I will never forget how he would always say hi and the way he would make me laugh by just being him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this extremely difficult time.

Lynda Clarke

July 12, 2014

Ray,Dawn and the rest of Mathew's family,
I'm so sorry for your loss my hugs and love go out to you.

The Payson Family

July 12, 2014

My family and I are so sorry for your loss. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed having Mathew in my Math class this year. He sat next to my desk and always had me smiling. He will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Dan Caluori

July 12, 2014

Our deepest condolences to you and your family. Dan, Michelle & family!

Rayanne & Ernie Fregeau

July 12, 2014

We are so very sorry for the loss of your son. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.

Mr. & Mrs. Raymond H. Rockefeller

July 11, 2014

Dear Buddy, Dawn, Jake, and Jill,
We have all lost a very special young man who touched many hearts.. We will forever cherish our fond memories of Mathew's beautiful smile and phone chats with his Grandpa about his proud sports and school accomplishments.. We are blessed to have been Mathew's grandparents, and words cannot describe our deep sadness and sorrow.. We must have faith that Mathew will forever be with us all -- he is now another angel that received his wings..
- With deep sorrow,
Grandpa & Grandma Rockefeller

Mat will be with me forever

Brad Zanfardino

July 11, 2014

Your son/brother was my best friend for as long as I can remember. He was so fun to be with and he was a giant goofball. Almost everyday after school we would just hangout and have fun. Mat was not only my best friend but he was also like a brother to me. I wish you guys all the love and prayers I can give.

Deana & Dave Zanfardino

July 11, 2014

Ray, Jill and Jake We are so sorry for your loss. Mathew was so special to us and he will be in our hearts forever. I hope you can find comfort in the memories of your wonderful boy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.

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