Matthew B. Pelletier

In Loving Memory of Matthew B. Pelletier

October 5, 1950 – January 8, 2026

Matthew Bernard Pelletier, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and retired United States Air Force veteran, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 8, 2026. After a prolonged and courageous battle with multiple illnesses, he passed away with the same quiet strength and jovial spirit that defined his life.

A Life Rooted in Faith and Service

Central to everything that defined him was his unwavering belief in Jesus Christ. His faith was his compass, guiding him through his 75 years and providing him with the loving, loyal heart he shared with everyone he met.

A proud veteran, he retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Technical Sergeant (E6) in 1990 after 20 meritorious years of service to his country. His sense of duty to his country was matched only by his devotion to his family. Whether he was cheering on his beloved Atlanta Braves (never missing a single game), adding to his many cherished collections, or giving someone a new favorite nickname, he lived life with a joyful heart.

He also loved his church family, especially his pastors, at New Life Augusta where he was a long time member.

His Greatest Joy: His Grandchildren

While he held many titles, none brought him more pride than being a grandfather. He was his grandchildren’s biggest fan, and his face lit up whenever he spoke of Sophia, Mary, Lena, and Braylon. He marveled at their accomplishments and loved them with a fierce, unconditional pride that will remain with them forever. To him, they were his greatest legacy and his greatest reward.

Family

He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria (Margaritaki) Pelletier; his stepfather who raised him, Paul W. Neidlinger (Nina); his son, Paul (Angela); and his daughter, Sonjya. He also leaves behind his two half-siblings, Michele Pelletier Vaughn of Madison, N.H., and Michael Pelletier of Naples, FL, as well as his four cherished grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Frances (McCann) Neidlinger and Leo F. Pelletier, and his brother, Leo F. Pelletier, Jr.

Services and Interment

A memorial service with full military honors to celebrate his life and faith will be held on January 31, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at New Life Augusta, Central Campus. Following the service, family and friends are invited to stay for a remembrance of life to share stories, laughter, and memories.

He will be interred at the Fort Jackson National Cemetery in Columbia, SC, where he will take his place of rest alongside his fellow brothers-in-arms.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484.