The Woburn community and Arlington Catholic High School are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Matthew J. Driscoll, a beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend, who passed away on January 13 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was just 15 years old. Though his life was far too short, Matthew’s strength, resilience, and spirit left an enduring impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Matthew was the cherished son of Chad and Eve (Lawlor) Driscoll of Woburn, who stood beside him with unwavering love throughout his journey. He was a treasured and deeply loving big brother to Sarah and Rory, roles he embraced with pride, protectiveness, and affection. The bond Matthew shared with his family was at the core of who he was, and it shaped the compassion and courage that defined his life.
A devoted student-athlete at Arlington Catholic High School, Matthew was admired not only for his athletic ability but for his determination, teamwork, and heart. Coaches, teammates, classmates, and faculty remember him as someone who showed up with grit and perseverance, even in the face of immense personal challenges. In every sense of the word, Matthew was a warrior—on the field, in the classroom, and throughout his battle with illness.
Matthew’s strength was matched by his kindness. He had a way of lifting others simply by being himself, whether through a quiet moment of encouragement, shared laughter, or his steady presence among friends and teammates. His courage in facing cancer inspired many, reminding those around him what it truly means to fight with dignity and hope.
He was the beloved grandson of Joseph Lawlor of Arlington and the late Susan Lawlor, as well as the late John and Mary Driscoll of North Andover. Matthew was a loving nephew to Ryan Lawlor and his wife Allison of Medford; Alison Russell and her husband Kevin of Arlington; Beth Blanchard and her husband Dave of Bradford, Massachusetts; Dan Driscoll and his wife Rina of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Brian Driscoll and his wife Jackie of Derry, New Hampshire; Ken Driscoll and his wife Cathy of St. Petersburg, Florida; and the late John Driscoll and his wife Ellen of Methuen. He is also survived by many loving cousins who will forever carry his memory with them.
At home, Matthew shared a special bond with his beloved dog, Shamrock, whose companionship brought comfort and joy during both ordinary days and the most difficult moments.
While Matthew’s life was marked by an extraordinary battle with cancer, he will not be remembered for illness alone. He will be remembered for his bravery, his loyalty, his love for his family, and the indelible mark he left on his school and community. Arlington Catholic High School joins the Driscoll family in grieving a student-athlete whose spirit embodied perseverance and heart.
As Woburn and the Arlington Catholic community reflect on Matthew’s life, they do so with profound sadness—but also with gratitude for the time they were given with him. Matthew J. Driscoll’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught through his courage, and the love that surrounds his memory.
Matthew was a warrior—and he will never be forgotten.
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