When Morristown Police Lt. Matt Rawding retired in 2024 after 27 years of service, his former boss wrote a letter ranking him among her top hires, citing his “personal integrity, work ethic and positive attitude.”
He treasured those words from former Police Chief Carol Williams, and that’s how others remembered him on Friday.
Rawding’s death was announced by Morristown PBA Local 43.
“It is with profound sadness and with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our fellow brother, Matthew David Rawding,” the PBA said.
Rawding served with the Morristown Bureau of Police from July 1997 until his retirement in December 2024.
“His commitment, service, and contributions to our department and community will not be forgotten,” the PBA said, extending condolences to Rawding’s family, friends and colleagues.
Rawding suffered a massive heart attack on Sept. 12, 2026, and initially was treated at Morristown Medical Center. According to a GoFundMe organized to help his family, he underwent multiple surgeries before transferring to Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City for a heart transplant.
The fundraiser described Rawding as fighting tenaciously to remain with his family, including his seven children. As of Friday, more than 600 donations had raised approximately $108,000 toward a $120,000 goal.
Mayor Tim Dougherty remembered Rawding and his wife Denise as neighbors who helped he and his wife Mary care for their son Ryan when he was young. Now grown, Ryan came to admire Rawding’s skill on the golf course, Dougherty said.
“It’s sad and heartbreaking,” and a reminder of life’s fragility, the mayor said of Rawding’s passing.
“He was an outstanding police officer, and his absence in this community and surrounding communities will be felt…Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”
Funeral arrangements were not immediately available. This story will be updated when they are announced.
Morristown has a long history of people stepping forward in pivotal moments.
When you chip in to Morristown Green, you’re helping your neighbors stay informed, strengthening our civic backbone, and carrying on the spirit that’s defined this town since its earliest days.
Rally for local news.
