Paul Connolly Obituary

Paul F. Connolly, Sr. of Branford died on Wednesday February 19, 2025 at Yale-New Haven Hospital. He was the beloved husband to Jeanne Silvestro Connolly. Paul was born in New Haven on October 11, 1941, son of the late Frank and Eleanor Hanniford Connolly. He was a lifelong resident of Branford. Paul grew up on Maple Street in Branford. He met the love of his life, Jeanne, during their high school years, and they married on May 22, 1965. Together, they built their family home on Milo Drive in Branford, where they continued to reside throughout their lives. He and Jeanne would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this May. A devoted family man, Paul took immense pride in his three children's accomplishments and was a constant presence on the sidelines of their games and events, supporting them in all their endeavors. Paul began his career at Marlin Firearms at the age of 19 and dedicated 44 years to the company before retiring in 2005. He also served his country as a member of the National Guard. An avid outdoorsman, Paul found joy in hunting and snowmobiling in Vermont. His passion for adventure extended to traveling, which began with a cross-country drive with Jeanne after their wedding. Following his retirement, Paul and Jeanne embarked on regular travels throughout the year, including springtime trips to the Caribbean, summer visits to their favorite bed and breakfast in Maine, and special journeys to visit their children. In addition to Jeanne, he is survived by his children, Shaune (William) Gillespe of Middleboro, MA and Brian Connolly (Gregory Todd Ryburn) of Branford, and his sister Elizabeth White of Branford. He was predeceased by his son Paul F. Connolly, Jr., and his sister Maryann Miranda. Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours on Monday evening from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford, and to a funeral service on Tuesday morning at 10:00 in the funeral home, with burial to follow in St. Agnes Cemetery. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul Connolly, please visit our floral store.