Co-Owner of OTRA Jennifer M. Matta of Rumford Dies at 45

Co-Owner of OTRA Jennifer M. Matta of Rumford Dies at 45

Jennifer M. Matta, 45, of Rumford, Rhode Island, passed away at home surrounded by her loved ones on June 5, 2026.  She was the beloved wife of Lesley J. Bolton. 

 

Proudly raised in Little Compton, Rhode Island, Jennifer carried the values, friendships, and love of that close-knit community with her throughout her life.

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Jennifer was the dearly loved daughter of Francis Matta (Cipriano) and the late George Matta Jr. In addition to her devoted wife and loving mother, she leaves behind her cherished brother, Michael Matta of Rehoboth, Massachusetts; her beloved in-laws, Forest and Christine Bolton of Bristol, Rhode Island; her lifelong best friend, Brian Kingsford, and his wife, Rachel Kingsford, whom she considered family; and her treasured godchildren, Elizabeth R. Kingsford and Bryson R. Kingsford of Barrington, Rhode Island, who brought immeasurable joy and pride to her life.

 

A prominent restaurateur and hospitality professional in Providence, Jennifer devoted her life to the restaurant industry she loved. As co-owner of OTRA Restaurant, she helped create a beloved gathering place known for its warmth and hospitality. She also dedicated over 20 years to BACARO, where she served as Vice President and a trusted leader and driving force behind its success, overseeing front-of-house operations and working alongside her longtime business partner and friend.

 

Jennifer will be remembered for her generosity, fierce loyalty, and unwavering dedication to the people she loved. Whether welcoming guests into her restaurant, supporting her friends, or spending time with family, she made everyone around her feel valued, cared for, and at home.

 

The family would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and caregivers at HopeHealth Hospice for the compassion, dignity, and comfort they provided.

 

Friends and family are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, June 22 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol, Rhode Island 02809.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA in Jennifer's memory: ASPCA, PO Box 96929, Washington DC 20090-6929, or online at: https://secure.aspca.org/donate