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Gerry Connolly
1950 - 2025
Gerry Connolly
1950 - 2025
Obituary
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BORN
1950
DIED
2025
Gerry Connolly Obituary
Gerry Connolly, a nine-term congressman representing northern Virginia who was the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, died May 21, 2025, of esophageal cancer in Mantua, Virginia at the age of 75.?
Connolly began his career in elected politics in 1995 as a member of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. He made the leap to Congress in the 2008 election, when he easily defeated Republican Keith Fimian to take the 11th District seat. Connolly, a Democrat, had a tough rematch against Fimian two years later, winning by less than half a point, but after that his tenure was smooth sailing, boasting repeated landslide victories for the rest of his time in office. In Congress, his focus was on protecting workers' rights, clean energy, gun safety, and marriage rights for LGBTQ citizens, among other issues. In January of 2025, he was selected as the Democrats' top official on the House Oversight Committee, edging out Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for the role. He was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2024.
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett called him a "dedicated public servant" on the social media platform BlueSky. "Congressman Connelly's legacy is one of principles leadership and dedicated public service. His contributions will have a lasting impact on the efficiency of government. It has been an absolute honor to serve alongside him, and more than that, to learn from him. The country is better off because of his work."?
By Eric San Juan
(Image: Francis Chung/POLITICO via AP Images)
9 Entries
Tom Hughes
May 28, 2025
Yesterday´s funeral service for Gerry was superb..a heartfelt tribute to his magnificent life of public service. Thank you for arranging a live stream broadcast.
Gerry and I worked together in the Senate when I was Chief of Staff to Sen Pell, the chairman. Working with Gerry all that time was one of the great experiences of my Senate career and left me with abundant memories.
Karol and John Straub
May 27, 2025
Our deep condolences to Smitty and Caitlin and their family. We got to know Gerry when he ran for Providence District Supervisor and supported and followed him with admiration and our greatest respect. His impact on our community and the nation will endure. He will be missed.
DR
May 27, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Mr Connolly. May the fond memories of your dear loved one always be remembered.
Eileen (Donovan) Bourgeault
May 27, 2025
My fondest memories are of Gerry at Saint Anthony´s Elementary School in Allston!
He had the best sense of humor, was kind to everyone! Smart, but humble! God bless! The world lost a good man! My sincerest condolences to his family!
How you can show support
Patricia carroll Babson
May 26, 2025
Rest in peace congressman. You set a fine example of a true patriot who served your constituents well in every public role. Patricia carroll Babson
Odette Fox
May 26, 2025
RIP Mr. Connolly
My deepest condolences to the family.
Alhaji "HAJ" Jalloh
May 26, 2025
On this Memorial Holiday Day, I would like to share the memory of the late Congressman Gerry Connolly. He was a dedicated advocate for all people, particularly those we support at Health & Joy Services. Congressman Connolly embodied inclusive leadership and was a loyal supporter of the growth and progress of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A few years ago, he and his office welcomed me and other colleagues to share our advocacy and testimony regarding our mission and vision for the people we support.
Rest in peace, and let us continue to grow and think progressively to meet the needs of all people.
Denise Barron
May 25, 2025
My condolences to the family.
O. D. Barron
Tom Berbas
May 24, 2025
My heartfelt condolences to Congressman Connolly´s family, friends, and all those who knew and worked with him. His dedication to public service and his commitment to making a positive difference in his community stands as a lasting legacy. May he be remembered for his kindness, his integrity, and his many years of service. Wishing peace and comfort to his loved ones during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Tom Berbas
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