Posted January 5, 2024

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez released the following statement Jan. 5 on the death of Mr. Matthew H. McCloskey IV, a Catholic philanthropist and Philadelphia business leader. Archbishop Pérez will be the principal celebrant at the Mass of Christian Burial for Mr. Matthew H. McCloskey IV on Jan. 10 at Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova. To read the complete obituary for Mr. McCloskey, please visit here.

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I was deeply saddened to learn of the recent death of Mr. Matthew H. McCloskey IV, a Catholic philanthropist and business leader, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and a dear friend to the Church of Philadelphia.

Mr. McCloskey was a man of extraordinary faith, intelligence, and compassion devoted to serving others through charity. He truly exemplified the virtues of Missionary Discipleship and shared God’s love with profound generosity as an instrument of hope and grace.

His support of the Ambassador’s Fund for Catholic Education, the Saint Martin de Porres Foundation, the Serra Club of Philadelphia, Serra International, along with many Catholic parishes, schools, and ministries touched countless lives in deeply transformational ways.

Mr. McCloskey lived with fidelity and joy as a beacon of Christ’s light to all those he encountered. His unwavering dedication to Catholic education and his advocacy for the poor and underserved in our midst leave behind a powerful legacy of Christian charity that inspires all of us.

As we mourn Mr. McCloskey’s passing, we lift our hearts and voices in prayerful solidarity for the happy repose of his soul and in Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the gift of his time among us. May God grant him the gift of eternal life and give consolation to all those who loved, admired, and respected him.

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia