Matthew John Thomas Sagar

Seekonk, MA – Matthew John Thomas Sagar, 36, lost his battle with cancer on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.

Born in Attleboro on January 1, 1990, Matthew was recognized as Massachusetts' first baby of the decade. He was the beloved son of Gary S. Sagar and Karen F. (Holmes) Sagar.

Besides his parents, Matthew leaves his two sisters, Pamela Correia and her husband, Ricardo, of Seekonk, and Victoria (Tori) Sagar of East Providence; his niece, Paige Correia; his nephew, Benjamin Correia; and his beloved canine companions, Bailey, Duke, and Murphy.

Matthew was born with a smile on his face. He grew to be a gentle giant who was always kind, compassionate, and generous, with a giving personality and a willingness to help others. Matthew was loved by many and was a true friend and an exceptional person. He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed as a devoted son, brother, uncle, and cousin.

Additional loving relatives who were an important part of his support team include his aunt and uncle, Thomas and Susie Holmes of Yarmouth, MA; their children, Jill Holmes of Taunton, MA, and Timothy Holmes of Raynham, MA; Pamela and David Gratiano of Haverhill, MA, and their son, Jack; and Lori Sagar of Chepachet, RI.

Special thanks are extended to his cousins, Kristen Shaffer, NP, and her family of Portland, OR, and Brian Gebhardt and his family of Rancho Cucamonga, CA.

Matthew's determination to beat cancer inspired many who witnessed his fight. As hard as he battled the disease, he never once complained about the severe pain he endured throughout his journey.

Matthew was a graduate of Seekonk High School. He enjoyed competing in multiple sports, including football, and was a member of the 2007 team that completed an undefeated regular season. Matthew also participated in various hockey programs at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, RI.

Matthew developed a passion for motorsports and competed at Seekonk Speedway in the Seekonk Youth Racing Association (SYRA) Mini Cup Division, where he earned a victory. In 2004, he received the "Most Polite Driver Award." He later advanced to compete in Mini Stocks and Pro4 Modifieds at various racetracks throughout New England and North Carolina.

Matthew was self-employed as a landscaping contractor. His business, Bristol County Landscaping, was his pride and joy. Through hard work and dedication, he expanded the company to multiple vehicles and a crew of seven employees. Even from his hospital bed, Matthew continued to manage the business with the assistance of two cell phones and a laptop computer.

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, August 27, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish, Coyle Drive, Seekonk.

Calling hours and flowers are respectfully omitted.

Memorial donations in Matthew's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Alternatively, contributions may be made to the ASPCA, a local animal shelter, or another organization that helps cover adoption fees for pets in need.

Arrangements are entrusted to the William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket, RI.

www.TrippFuneralHome.com