A process for the preparation of a tissue matrix suitable for regenerative repair of tissues, including contacting an isolated connective tissue with an amount of detergent and an amount of disinfectant to significantly reduce at least one of lipids, phospholipids, nucleic acids, major histocompatibility (MHC) antigens, contaminating microorganisms, and endotoxins. The process further provides for less significant reduction in proteoglycan content while retaining the overall structure of the tissue matrix produced. Processing may further include micronizing the tissue matrix. Also, a tissue matrix having a scaffold portion and non-structural portion, collectively structured to promote cellular infiltration, attachment, and proliferation. The tissue matrix may be in the form of a sheet, thick sheet, or micronized. Also, kits including a prepared tissue matrix for use in regenerative repair, and kits for preparing a tissue matrix.