Matthew Toplyn

Matthew Alexander Toplyn

It is with a heart full of love and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Matthew Alexander Toplyn. Despite the dedicated efforts of all medical personnel, they could not revive him after a sudden heart attack. He left this world on November 23, 2025, at the age of 66.

Matthew was born on August 16, 1959, in Monmouth, New Jersey, to Joseph and Ruth R. (Lane) Toplyn. He was raised in West Roxbury with his three elderly brothers, Christopher, Joseph and Michael.  After living and working in Waltham for some years, he returned to West Roxbury make it his home for the remainder of his life.  He was a proud graduate of Boston Latin High School and went on to earn his college degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

A dedicated letter carrier for nearly 40 years, Matthew was known and loved by the customers on his route for his gentle heart. This kindness was the foundation of his life. He was a responsible, protective, and deeply loving man, willing to give all he had to protect his loved ones. He was the devoted and loving husband of Xiaoming Yan, his greatest love and partner.

Matthew’s memory will be forever cherished for his unwavering integrity, his protective nature, and the quiet, generous way he cared for everyone in his life.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Matthew's life will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre Street, West Roxbury, MA 02132. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that friends and all whom Matthew was so fortunate to have crossed paths with honor his memory by performing an act of kindness in their community, in the same quiet and sincere spirit he embodies.